Deputy Minister Makhotso Sotyu Highlights Local Tourism and Community Empowerment at Africa Coastal Marine Event

During the Africa Coastal Maritime and Marine Tourism Trade Market in Nelson Mandela Bay, Deputy Minister of Tourism Hon. Makhotso “Maggie” Sotyu emphasized the significance of domestic tourism in sustaining South Africa’s blue economy. She highlighted the critical role that coastal communities, especially women, can play in sectors such as fisheries and small-scale tourism enterprises. With government backing and accessible grants available to support small businesses, the Deputy Minister encouraged more citizens to participate in marine-linked tourism economies. Events like the Trade Market, she noted, are essential platforms that bring together public and private sectors to collaborate, share knowledge, and drive inclusive coastal tourism development across South Africa.