KWA-GXARHA- The summer season has officially started as the Eastern Cape Parks Tourism Agency(ECPTA) has kicked off with a media excursion at KwaGxarha(formerly known as Morgan’s Bay) this December.
Eastern Cape MEC responsible for Finance and Economic Development, Mlungisi Mvoko noted that in 2024 the Eastern Cape achieved a strong post-COVID tourism recovery, recording 6 million domestic trips, 20.5% of the national total contributing R13 billion to the provincial gross domestic product (GDP), alongside 300 000 international visitors who generated R4.2 billion in foreign direct spending.
He stated that the province is driving major tourism growth through key investments including a R45 million upgrade at Cape Morgan, revitalisation projects at Silaka and the Baviaanskloof World Heritage Site, community-owned successes such as GweGwe Beach Lodge returning over R500 000 to locals and extensive youth empowerment programmes while cruise tourism continues to accelerate with 34 ships and 50 000 passengers bringing over R100 million to Nelson Mandela Bay last season and a further 13 ships expected in East London this season.
Chairperson of the Wild Coast Holiday Association and director of Mbotyi River Lodge, Meander Inn and Wild Coast Holiday Reservations, William Ross said that, “We don’t have big cities, ports or airports. You reach us through rural roads and you discover us online and when visitors arrive they find comfort, adventure and hospitality. Our hotels offer full-board packages, incredible cuisine and access to guided hikes, packed lunches, braai packs and safe exploration of our natural surroundings,” he said.
In addition Ross said that, “Crime cannot be tolerated that is clear but we must also be careful not to scare tourists away. Resorts have private security and most incidents happen outside these facilities. Communities need to play an active role because we are the main employers in this area. Local people rely on tourism and they can be our eyes and ears.”
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at ECPTA Vuyani Dayimane emphasised that, “Nations that advance economically often begin by studying and understanding other countries, just as China has done. They make a deliberate effort to learn about the nations they work with spending time understanding their cultures, how their people live and how their societies function. This makes it easier to form economic agreements that generate millions upon millions because the foundation is built on knowledge and connection.”
In addition he said that, “If we look closely at how this process begins it starts with knowing these countries and communicating with them effectively. We also have a great opportunity to show people how our own economy can grow. One thing we are noticing, especially in the tourism sector is that people no longer want to be confined to hotel rooms they want to interact and connect with local communities,” said Dayimane.
As the summer season unfolds, the ECPTA remains confident that the province is entering a new era of sustainable tourism growth.
Through strategic investments, strong community partnerships and a renewed commitment to showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Wild Coast, the Eastern Cape continues to position itself as one of South Africa’s most authentic and culturally rich destinations.
