Speaking at the Hotel Show, held in Johannesburg recently, Deputy Minister Thabethe said according to the 2016 hospitality report by Price Waterhouse Coopers, the number of available hotel rooms would rise at a 0,8% compound annual rate to 63 700 in 2020, from 61 100 in 2015.

The report projects that bed-night stays will increase at a 1,9% compound annual rate to 14,6 million in 2020, from 13,3 million in 2015.

Overall hotel room revenue is expected to expand at a 7,8% compound annual rate to R20,6 billion in 2020, from R14,2 billion in 2015.

Deputy Minister Thabethe said South Africa had 118 869 star-graded rooms across approximately 5 354 accommodation establishments, including hotels, lodges and B&Bs.

"The growth in overseas arrivals, the increase in the number of star-graded establishments, and the range of accommodation options on offer indicate that our destination is perfectly suited to meet the needs and budgets of our visitors.

"We are confident that there is potential for even further growth in tourism in our country," the Deputy Minister said.

She said when it came to business events, African destinations were fast earning their rightful place as host destinations.

"African destinations offer the world exceptional, unfiltered, life-inspiring authentic experiences. From our history and heritage to the wildlife and natural beauty – Africa never fails to create a lasting impression on travellers from across the globe," Deputy Minister Thabethe said.

The Department of Tourism is training and upskilling people in the industry to deliver on this promise, across all touch points of the consumer journey.

"Government and industry must continue to work together to make the tourism sector a leading example of radical economic transformation," Deputy Minister Thabethe said.

The Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Charter Council has made good progress in formulating a plan to transform tourism. – Source: SAnews.gov.za