Kenya has emerged as the center of South Africa’s tourism success story, as Statistics South Africa releases official international arrival numbers for January to November 2023.
The East African country recorded a staggering 94.2% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa.
This increase in numbers is due to Kenya’s strategic decision to simplify its visa regime earlier this year, as well as a targeted and effective insight-based marketing campaign.
The seamless connectivity established by Kenya Airways between Nairobi and South Africa, particularly Johannesburg and Cape Town, has contributed significantly to the impressive growth in passenger numbers between the two countries.
The increased accessibility and convenience of direct flights has encouraged more Kenyan and South African travelers to explore the opportunity, leading to increased tourism, business initiatives and cultural exchanges.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille was pleased with the impressive numbers from the African continent and underlined the importance of the region.
She said Kenya’s impressive achievements were due to the government’s strategic decisions, simplifying visa requirements and implementing effective marketing strategies.
The joint efforts of the Department of Tourism, South African Tourism and the wider tourism sector played a key role in achieving such impressive results on the continent.
She expressed her determination to work with her partners and government colleagues to remove obstacles such as visa requirements, security concerns and restrictions on air access.
In closing, the Minister highlighted South Africa’s unique landscapes, tourism products and experiences and thanked all South Africans for their continued hospitality and warm welcome to visitors.
The future is bright for South Africa as the country continues to strive for attractiveness, attraction and constant growth in tourism.
It has been a year since Kenyans were able to travel to South Africa visa-free for 90 days a year.
This announcement was made at a joint press conference on November 9, 2023 by Dr.William Samoei Ruto, CGH, President of the Republic of Kenya, and H.E. Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa.
At the time of the announcement, President Cyril Ramaphosa was making his first official visit to Kenya from 8 to 9 November 2022 at the invitation of President Ruto.
The increased accessibility and convenience of direct flights has encouraged more Kenyan and South African travelers to explore opportunities, leading to increased tourism, business activity and cultural exchange.
This increased freedom of movement not only has a positive impact on the aviation industry, but is also a testament to the strengthening of ties and mutual benefits between Kenya and South Africa.
Kenya Airways flies direct to Johannesburg and Cape Town in South Africa.