Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu has called on the tourism industry to increase investment in programmes that connect young people to employment, skills development and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Speaking at the #YouthInTourism engagement in the Free State, Sotyu said South Africa's youth have the creativity, innovation and energy needed to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and development.
She urged government, businesses and tourism stakeholders to work together to ensure young people are equipped with the skills and support needed to participate successfully in the tourism sector.
Tourism Can Drive Youth Employment And Entrepreneurship
Sotyu highlighted tourism's unique ability to create opportunities for young people across a wide range of industries and communities.
“The youth in our country are vibrant, innovative and they have the ability to actively participate in building South Africa’s future. Tourism is uniquely positioned to support their efforts.”
The engagement formed part of Youth Month commemorations marking the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprising and was held under the theme: "Reset@50 – A Future in Tourism Calls."
The event brought together government officials, tourism industry leaders, entrepreneurs, chefs and aspiring young professionals to explore career and business opportunities within the tourism value chain.
Youth Development Essential For Tourism Growth
According to the Deputy Minister, tourism is a people-driven industry that relies heavily on talent, skills and innovation.
She said expanding access to opportunities for young people will not only support economic growth but also help build sustainable careers in the sector.
“Tourism is built by people, powered by people and sustained by people. As policymakers and drivers of this economy, we must ensure that young South Africans are equipped with the skills, support and opportunities to participate meaningfully in the economy and contribute to our country’s development.”
Sotyu emphasised that investing in young people today will strengthen the future of South Africa's tourism industry.
Tourism Industry Showcases Career Opportunities
The #YouthInTourism event featured several activities designed to inspire and empower young people interested in the tourism sector.
Activities included:
- A culinary showcase celebrating South African cuisine.
- Presentations from tourism industry stakeholders.
- Mentorship sessions with experienced professionals.
- Networking opportunities for emerging chefs and entrepreneurs.
- Discussions on careers and business opportunities in tourism.
Organisers said the programme highlighted tourism's ability to create economic opportunities for individuals, small businesses and local communities.
Tourism Continues To Support Jobs In South Africa
Highlighting the economic impact of the sector, Sotyu revealed that tourism contributed 4.9% to South Africa's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and supported approximately 954,000 direct jobs in 2024.
She said domestic tourism remains a critical driver of growth and continues to create pathways into the economy, particularly through small businesses and community-based enterprises.
“Tourism creates pathways and opportunities into the economy for young people,” she said.
“Government remains committed to implementing programmes focused on skills development, entrepreneurship support and capacity building. With continued support from stakeholders, we can empower more young people to enter the sector equipped with the skills needed for future success.”
Free State Secures Major Investment Commitments
The Deputy Minister's call for greater investment in youth development was supported by Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, who described investment as a key driver of job creation, industrialisation, enterprise development and skills growth.
The Premier announced that the Free State government recently secured investment commitments worth approximately R400 billion during an investment mission to China.
She said the investments are expected to create significant economic opportunities for residents of the province, particularly young people and women.
“This is a clear vote of confidence in our province, our people and our vision for economic transformation,” Letsoha-Mathae said.
Building A Stronger Future Through Tourism
As South Africa continues to tackle youth unemployment, government leaders believe the tourism sector can play an important role in creating jobs, supporting entrepreneurship and developing skills.
By investing in young people and expanding access to opportunities, the sector can help build a more inclusive economy while contributing to long-term growth and sustainable development.
Additional reporting by SANews.gov.za.
