DRAVENTAL Car Hire and Tours chief executive officer Maureen Mbondiah says tourism is a strategic sector with the potential to drive economic growth and development across Africa.
Speaking at the Joe Gqabi Investment Conference in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Mbondiah said tourism remained a key driver of inclusive growth, with the ability to stimulate multiple sectors including transport, hospitality, retail and small business development, while also attracting investment and creating employment opportunities across the continent.
She made the remarks while presenting at the recently held conference, which brought together investors, government representatives, business leaders and development partners to explore opportunities for economic growth and regional co-operation.
Mbondiah said tourism should not be viewed as mere travel but as a critical engine of economic transformation.
“Every visitor creates opportunities across multiple sectors, including transport, hospitality, retail, agriculture and community enterprises,” she said.
“By investing in tourism and improving regional connectivity, Africa can unlock significant economic value while showcasing the continent’s rich cultural and natural heritage to the world.”
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The conference provided a platform for stakeholders to network and engage on investment promotion, infrastructure development, tourism expansion, innovation, and regional trade.
Mbondiah said the discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration in unlocking Africa’s untapped opportunities.
“The event facilitated meaningful conversations around unlocking untapped opportunities and leveraging regional strengths to achieve sustainable growth.”
She added that growing investor interest signalled optimism about Africa’s development trajectory, stressing the need for continued co-operation and innovation.
“There is a growing recognition that Africa’s future prosperity will be built through collaboration, innovation and strategic investment,” she said.
Drawing on her leadership of Dravental Car Hire and Tours, Mbondiah highlighted tourism’s role in job creation, foreign investment, infrastructure development and supporting local enterprises.
She said stronger regional partnerships were essential for the full realisation of Africa’s tourism potential.
Mbondiah reaffirmed her commitment to promoting tourism as a vehicle for economic development and positioning Africa as a competitive destination for both business and leisure travel.