South Africa’s Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille Bags WTTC Global Champion Award
At the WTTC Global Summit in Valletta, Minister Patricia de Lille was recognized for her commitment to government-industry collaboration, as new forecasts show South Africa’s tourism sector contributing ZAR 659.8 billion to the economy and supporting a record high in employment.
Valletta, Malta — South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, has been presented with prestigious Global Champion Award by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). The accolade recognizes her leadership in advancing the Travel & Tourism sector and her steadfast commitment to strengthening collaboration between the government and the private sector.
The award was handed over during the WTTC Global Summit in Valletta, an event that gathered more than 1,000 delegates, including over 200 of the world’s leading Travel & Tourism CEOs and government officials.
A Vital Engine for Employment and Investment
The Global Champion Award is dedicated to public leaders whose policies enhance the growth, competitiveness, and international visibility of Travel & Tourism while fostering essential engagement with industry stakeholders. For South Africa, this recognition comes at a time when the sector is proving to be a critical driver of economic activity and inclusive growth.
According to WTTC’s latest country research, South Africa’s Travel & Tourism sector is forecast to support 1.9 million jobs in 2025—an all-time high representing 11.3% of national employment. The sector’s total contribution to the national economy is projected to reach ZAR 659.8 billion, underscoring its role as a cornerstone of economic opportunity across the nation.
Unlocking Future Potential Through Collaboration
Beyond current achievements, the WTTC highlighted significant future opportunities for the sector. Forecasts suggest that Travel & Tourism could add more than 620,000 additional jobs by 2035 and contribute ZAR 911.7 billion to the economy. However, realizing this potential requires sustained cooperation between government and industry, particularly in areas such as connectivity, investment, workforce development, and destination competitiveness.
President & CEO of the WTTC, Gloria Guevara, praised Minister de Lille’s approach to governance. “Minister de Lille has been a strong champion of engagement with the private sector, recognising that sustainable tourism growth is only possible when governments and businesses work together towards common goals,” Guevara stated.
She noted that the Minister’s efforts have helped unlock opportunities for investment and job creation, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach communities across the country. “This award recognises her efforts to build partnerships that support the sector’s future success and maximise its benefits for communities across the country.”
A Continental Focus
The presentation of the award reinforces the WTTC’s broader mission to advocate for policies that support investment, connectivity, and sustainable destination growth. As global travel continues to evolve, the council remains focused on fostering environments where both African and international destinations can thrive through shared responsibility and innovation.
Cover image. “Global Summit Malta 2026 – Gala Dinner – DSCF6224” by World Travel & Tourism Council, CC BY 4.0.
