South African Tourism has expressed deep concern over reports of cancelled travel bookings from several African countries following recent protests and incidents targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
In a formal statement issued for immediate release on 28 May 2026, the national tourism body confirmed it is closely monitoring developments while working alongside government and industry partners to reassure international travellers and safeguard the country’s reputation as a premier global destination.
The organisation strongly condemned all acts of intimidation, violence, discrimination, and unlawful conduct directed at foreign nationals, stressing that such actions are entirely unacceptable and do not reflect the values of South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
A Contradiction to Ubuntu
The tourism authority emphasised that the recent unrest stands in direct contradiction to the national ethos of Ubuntu, which highlights shared humanity, dignity, and mutual respect.
“As an organisation committed to promoting South Africa as a welcoming and inclusive destination, we unequivocally condemn all acts of intimidation, violence, discrimination and unlawful conduct directed at foreign nationals,” the statement read. “These actions are unacceptable, do not reflect the values of our democracy, and stand in direct opposition to the spirit of Ubuntu that defines South Africa and its people.”
The organisation reiterated its support for ongoing government efforts to maintain stability and uphold the rule of law. While noting that immigration-related concerns are legitimate public policy issues, the authority stressed that they must be addressed through lawful, institutional processes rather than vigilante action.
South African Tourism further clarified that the recent incidents linked to anti-immigrant sentiment represent the behaviour of a minority and should not be interpreted as representative of the broader population or state policy.
“The recent vigilante-style actions and criminal behaviour witnessed in certain communities are the acts of a minority and do not represent the views of the overwhelming majority of South Africans, nor do they reflect government policy,” the statement maintained.
Protecting Africa’s Largest Source Market
The stakes remain incredibly high for the continent’s tourism economy, especially given the sector’s record-breaking momentum. According to official data from Statistics Office of South Africa, the country welcomed a record 10.5 million international tourists in 2025, representing a sharp 17.7% increase from the 8.9 million recorded in 2024 and officially surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Crucially, regional travel continues to be the primary engine of this growth. In 2025, more than 77% of all tourist arrivals came from the African continent, with neighbouring Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries alone contributing 75.2% of the total volume.
The state body underscored the critical importance of maintaining these strong continental ties built on shared historical, cultural, and economic connections. African travellers play a foundational role in driving regional tourism revenue, hospitality growth, and broader economic development.
“We value the contribution that African travellers make to our tourism sector and broader economy, and we remain dedicated to strengthening regional tourism, partnership and people-to-people relations,” the statement noted.
Diplomatic Attention and Continued Openness
The statement comes amid heightened regional concern, with reports of protests and isolated incidents triggering diplomatic attention and discussions across several African capitals.
Despite the rising friction and initial wave of booking cancellations, South African Tourism assured international travellers that the country remains open, safe, and accessible. Law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring the situation, and the government is continuing widespread engagement efforts aimed at promoting social cohesion across affected communities.
The organisation concluded by reaffirming its ongoing collaboration with government institutions, private sector stakeholders, and continental partners to protect the integrity of the tourism sector and ensure continued confidence among travellers, investors, and regional partners.
“South African Tourism will continue working closely with government, industry partners and stakeholders across the continent to promote responsible tourism, protect South Africa’s reputation as a premier destination, and foster unity and mutual respect among all who live in and visit our country.”
