South Africa Remains Open and Welcoming to African Travellers, Says SATSA

Statement by SATSA, 19 June 2026

SATSA, the voice of inbound tourism in Southern Africa, acknowledges the concern that recent reports of incidents involving foreign nationals in parts of South Africa may have raised among travellers, trade partners and stakeholders across the African continent.

SATSA condemns any form of intimidation, violence or discrimination directed at individuals or communities. Incidents of this nature are serious and must be addressed through the appropriate official and legal channels.

It is equally important to place the current situation in context. Based on the information available to SATSA and its members, there is currently no indication that tourism operations have been disrupted or that leisure or business tourists are being targeted. Travel programmes are continuing, visitors are in destination, and tourism businesses across the country continue to operate as normal.

South Africa remains open and welcoming to visitors from across Africa and the world. African markets are central to South Africa’s tourism economy, accounting for more than three quarters of international arrivals to the country. This relationship is significant, valued and must continue to be protected.

SATSA notes President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address on 7 June, in which he made clear that xenophobia, intimidation and vigilantism will not be tolerated, and that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the state. Concerns relating to migration and immigration enforcement must be managed through lawful, official processes, and not through actions that place individuals or communities at risk.

SATSA encourages travellers, trade partners and the broader tourism industry to rely on verified information from official and credible sources. Isolated incidents should not be misrepresented as a reflection of the broader tourism environment.

South Africa’s tourism sector remains committed to hospitality, dignity and respect. Visitors from across the African continent remain welcome, and SATSA will continue to engage with members, stakeholders and partners to support calm, factual and responsible communication.

ENDS

Please direct any media queries to kim@satsa.co.za