Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the opening of South Africa's first Club Med resort, describing the more than R2 billion development as a vote of confidence in the country's tourism industry, businesses, and people. Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille delivered the President's address on his behalf at the official opening of the resort in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, on Thursday.
According to South African Government News Agency, the President stated that the development represents the largest hospitality investment in South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) since Sun City opened in the 1970s. He emphasized that this mega-development is a testament to South African enterprise, the capabilities of the people, and the future of the tourism industry.
The President highlighted that the investment was proudly South African-funded and supported by an investment consortium committed to advancing broad-based black economic empowerment. The project has generated employment and skills opportunities, particularly benefiting communities surrounding the resort. During construction, over 2,300 direct and indirect jobs were created, and 600 permanent direct jobs and 1,500 indirect jobs are being supported across local suppliers and related industries.
President Ramaphosa noted that 84% of employees at the Beach Resort are South Africans, while all employees at the Vikela Safari Lodge are from surrounding communities. He remarked that the resort's opening coincides with positive growth in South Africa's tourism sector, which has seen a substantial increase in international arrivals. From January 2026 to July 2026, international tourist arrivals grew to 6.5 million, marking a 12.4 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
The President expressed optimism that the resort's operations would create opportunities for small, micro, and medium enterprises through demand for fresh produce, maintenance, transport, and other services. He commended Club Med's efforts to partner with local businesses, ensuring that the benefits of the investment are widely shared.
Acknowledging the contributions of construction workers, artisans, and contractors, President Ramaphosa emphasized that the experience gained from this large-scale project would be beneficial for future endeavors. He also highlighted the crucial role of resort employees in shaping visitors' experiences of South Africa, stating that their professionalism and hospitality are key to memorable visitor experiences.
The President underscored the importance of public-private partnerships, noting the project's demonstration of collaboration between government, business, and communities. He outlined the responsibilities of government and business in creating conditions for successful investments and encouraged deeper cooperation across South Africa.
Finally, President Ramaphosa stressed the importance of protecting the natural heritage that supports the tourism industry, advocating for responsible use of resources and environmental stewardship. He concluded by thanking Club Med and its partners for their investment in South Africa and welcoming international guests to the new resort.