SATSA Board Meeting highlights and Year-End message
As we wrap up another year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve shared and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.
This year brought both triumphs and challenges. Among these, we’ve been deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague Virginia’s two-year-old daughter this week. On behalf of the SATSA community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her and her family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Highlights from SATSA’s recent Board Meeting and arrangements for Year-End:
Tourism Recovery and Collaboration
Challenges remain for tourism recovery, particularly in major source markets like the UK, Germany, and France. Recovery rates have stagnated below 80% of pre-pandemic levels, raising concerns about the industry's trajectory. SATSA emphasised the urgency of closer collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders to rejuvenate marketing efforts, address declining numbers, and resolve critical infrastructure challenges.
Leadership and Strategic Initiatives
We bid farewell to Andre du Toit, who resigned to pursue new ventures and welcomed Nick Shaw as the new Adventure Chapter Chair. Nick brings a wealth of expertise to this role, which will bolster SATSA’s efforts in promoting adventure tourism.
Additionally, partnerships with Africa's Eden and enhanced opportunities at WTM Africa and Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 are on the horizon, offering members more visibility and marketing platforms. Remember to make full use of Africa’s Eden’s international marketing opportunities, which offer significant value to your businesses.
Financial Integrity and Member Support
Financial challenges affecting some members have underscored the importance of stability and accountability within the SATSA network. To enable suppliers to flag potential issues confidentially, SATSA is developing an anonymous “Member Concern Line”. This proactive approach aims to detect early signs of financial distress and protect the broader membership while maintaining SATSA’s credibility.
Advocacy and Policy Progress
SATSA continues to make strides in its advocacy to improve the visa process for key markets, working closely with Home Affairs to simplify requirements. Significant progress has also been made in addressing longstanding issues with the National Public Transport Regulator (NPTR). Our efforts are focused on ensuring ministerial support for impactful and sustainable solutions that benefit members.
Looking Ahead
Efforts are underway to strengthen niche tourism sectors such as adventure and gastronomy while improving operational efficiency through standardised contracts between product owners and DMCs. SATSA is also exploring innovative ways to support small tourism businesses and promote collaboration within the industry to ensure shared success.
End-of-Year Office Closure and Emergency Support
Please note that this will be our final newsletter for 2024. We might publish a newsflash or two should it be required during the season. SATSA’s Head Office will be closed from 24 December to 2 January, but as always, our team remain available for emergencies. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need assistance during this period.
We also urge you to familiarise yourselves with the Victim Support Checklist, an essential resource to guide you through handling any incidents during the festive season.
Membership Renewals and Compliance for 2025
Membership renewals will commence the second week of January 2025. A key focus for the coming year will be on financial and insurance compliance to uphold the credibility and professionalism of SATSA. Please note that without meeting these requirements, memberships will not be valid.
Festive Greetings
On behalf of SATSA, David Frost, and the entire team, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful and restful festive season. Thank you for your support, dedication, and commitment to excellence in Southern African tourism.
