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As the City of Johannesburg begins the 2022/23 municipal financial year, a re-modelled Johannesburg Tourism Company officially becomes a municipal-owned entity as opposed to a directorate under the Department of Economic Development within the City. 

It will operate as a destination management organisation to support the tourism industry in Joburg for improved economic impact. 

The Multi-Party Government is prioritising tourism as a key economic driver, with the potential to contribute significantly to the City’s economy and support concerted efforts to turn Johannesburg into “a business friendly city”.

We are thrilled that the entity’s establishment has finally come to pass. After months of strenuous behind-the-scenes work, which started with appointing a nimble board of directors at the beginning of 2022; the team in the now-former directorate has complied with Council procedures. It has also ensured adherence to all relevant legal, governance as well as core business requirements. 

The revised iteration is a welcome development for the Joburg Tourism Company as it sets about re-establishing itself and reclaiming Johannesburg’s space as the continent’s foremost business and lifestyle destination, the veritable heartbeat of Africa. 

Time and again, before and after Covid-19, tourism’s importance as a driver of economic growth, development, and job creation has been noticeable. We are now set to grab all opportunities by the horns and really make strides on the continent and globally in terms of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions “MICE” Johannesburg, which has always been and remains a force to be reckoned with.

We are excited by the support and enthusiasm of our partners in this sector such as the South African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) who, through their CEO Glenton de Kock, have welcomed what the new organisational structures mean for Destination Joburg. More so than ever, we all need to be as well-equipped as possible to compete in the post-pandemic scenario, particularly for the MICE industry in Johannesburg.

The Covid-19 pandemic heavily impacted Johannesburg. Our communities and economy have suffered human and economic blows. However, we must seize the opportunity to rebuild and re-focus our economy, ensuring it is more competitive and adapted to the changes the pandemic and technology have brought to the world. 

The Multi-Party Government’s intention is for the City of Joburg to play its part in building partnerships between the government, the private sector and research institutions to achieve this. The establishment of the Joburg Tourism Company is an important part of this.  

We look forward to the great times ahead and welcoming local and international visitors to our beautiful city, the gateway into Africa.

Issued by City of Johannesburg