Team Blitz India
NEW DELHI: South Africa’s High Commissioner to India Joel Sibusiso Ndebele has been instrumental in deepening of the ties between India and South Africa. His diplomatic endeavours span various domains.
The High Commissioner articulated his perspective on India’s G20 presidency, emphasising four pivotal areas of collaboration. These include supporting Agenda 2063, with a specific focus on Sustainable Development Goals and green transition.
Secondly, continued support for the G20 partnership with Africa to address economic and developmental challenges. Thirdly, championing G20 initiatives on industrialisation in Africa, recognising the importance of economic growth on the continent. Fourthly, prioritising women empowerment, aligning with India’s commitment to gender equality.
Travel ties
Earlier this year, the High Commissioner played a key role in commemorating the 30-year milestone of bilateral relations between India and South Africa. Under his leadership, South African Tourism organised a 30-member trade delegation from India to Africa’s Travel Indaba 2023. This event, Africa’s biggest travel show, aimed at boosting tourism sector and enhancing networking opportunities.
What sets this initiative apart is Ndebele’s personal involvement in leading the Indian trade delegation, a first for a High Commissioner of South Africa in India. Recognising tourism as a catalyst for social cohesion, he engaged with aviation operators and state tourism boards to improve access, promote collaboration, and support small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs).
In 2022, South African Tourism witnessed a 200 per cent increase in Indian travellers. This year, they aim to reach pre-pandemic levels of tourist arrivals and anticipate a 35 per cent increase in footfall.
India has risen as South Africa’s sixth largest international source market post-pandemic, emphasising the importance of this relationship. The High Commissioner’s priority is to restart direct flights between India and South Africa, further strengthening bilateral ties.
