Ahead of Women’s Day tomorrow, South African Tourism’s Regional Director has penned a piece saluting the women in tourism – in front and behind the scenes – who work tirelessly and passionately to grow Africa’s tourism sector and in so doing, contribute to economic empowerment and job creation in their respective markets. She wrote:
This year’s International Women’s Day is themed Be Bold for Change. Having worked extensively in the tourism sector, I believe there is no better custodian of this narrative than the women who give of their time, skills and expertise while working in tourism; bringing, serving and delivering a hospitable experience to all who have the pleasure of being exposed to their work.
At the Regional Tourism Organisation of South Africa (Retosa) Women in Tourism Conference held last year in Lilongwe Malawi, it was reiterated that tourism has the potential to contribute greatly to gender equality and the empowerment of women in line with the Third Millennium Development Goals, and that the majority of people employed in tourism worldwide are women, both in formal and informal jobs. Further, while tourism offers women opportunities for income generation and entrepreneurship, women within the sector, are often concentrated in the lowest paid, lowest skilled sectors of the industry, yet often carry out a large amount of unpaid work in tourism businesses.
On a policy and decision making level, women are not well represented in the highest levels of employment and management of the tourism industry and these are some of the truths tourism authority bodies need to consider and engage when supporting the workers in their organisations.
But, despite the hurdles that serve as hindrances to the progress of women; we move, shake and make strides in our respective roles.
South African Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Tokozile Xasa lives this notion. She continues to champion the empowerment of women on the continent, particularly pertaining to entrepreneurial development. Ms. Xasa holds the view that collaboratively building solutions to grow and develop female entrepreneurs can shape and influence the landscape of African tourism.
Another woman is Nondumiso Pikashe from Gugulethu, South Africa. She founded Ses’fikile Wines, a winery that is one-hundred percent owned and controlled by women. While Pikashe admits the difficulty it took to penetrate a largely male dominated industry, Ses’fikile (Nguni for “we have arrived”) signifies a “foundation of communal struggle, while looking forward positively with a hope of a better tomorrow”.
Madame Nana Gecaga, acting Managing Director of the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, has been instrumental in facilitating the visits of international firms to Kenya on various projects, and has been involved in bringing international celebrities to Kenya to showcase products including business tourism.
In Ghana, former Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts; the affable Dzifa Gomashie has been lauded for pioneering initiatives that work for the betterment of the country’s domestic affairs, particularly with regards to the arts, even after her term in office had ended. We cannot talk tourism without mentioning cuisine and local foods as a means to grow the offering and ensure a palatable cultural exchange. Imoteda, the Head Chef at Hells in the Kitchen comes to mind. She has built a formidable following by creating delightful Nigerian cuisine to people across the world through her Nigerian Fusion Food Tour.
From mulheres in Mozambique who run the renowned fish market in Maputo with the greatest competence, transparency and management; to how women in Mukono Parish, southwestern Uganda, are navigating their local gender relations in order to work in and earn through tourism; to Irina Inantore, who heads Burundi’s Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Industry, Posts, & Tourism, designing and implementing government policy on trade, industry, tourism, and the development of strategies of promotion; and Mama Esther Mahlangu, a South African artist who has dedicated her life to developing, promoting and evolutionising traditional Ndebele wall painting – these examples offer perspective to anybody who doubts the capabilities, value and importance of women in shaping this continent, and serve as a reminder that we’re here to stay.
As we honour these and many other women who live boldness, courage and tenacity in pursuit of change, I ask that we continue to cultivate spaces that encourage young women across the continent to consider careers in the tourism sector, thereby passing on the baton to those who are still to come. The African Union’s Agenda 2063 serves as a roadmap for Africa’s long-term development, and includes the need to place gender equality at the centre of the continent’s social and economic development – this is crucial for building and sustaining major industries; tourism included, which contribute to the overall advancement of our continent.
Further, it’s come as no surprise to me that the running thread in the stories of all these women has been the presence and camaraderie of other women – further proving that a united front will take us places.
I wish you every success in your respective journeys and contributions – the world awaits your greatness.
Halala basadi, halala!
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“COVID-19” inspired my “Aseda”single – Michael K. Okyere recounts
Versatile musician Michael K. Okyere has recently released a single titled “Aseda,” which was inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic. The article explores the meaning behind the song and how Okyere found inspiration during this challenging time.
The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably affected people’s lives across the globe. From the devastating loss of lives to the economic downturn, it has created an unprecedented situation for everyone. However, amid the chaos and uncertainty, many individuals have found solace and inspiration in unlikely places.
One such person is Michael K. Okyere, a talented and versatile musician known for his ability to captivate audiences with his unique fusion of various music genres. When the pandemic struck, Okyere found himself reflecting on the prevailing circumstances and sought a way to channel his emotions into his art.
The result was the creation of his latest single, “Aseda,” which means “thanks” in the Akan language spoken in Ghana, Okyere’s home country. The song serves as a tribute to the resilience and gratitude of individuals during these challenging times.
Okyere shares that “Aseda” was born out of his desire to express his deep appreciation for life and the strength of the human spirit. He witnessed people coming together, supporting each other, and finding joy in the simplest of things despite the hardships they faced. The song aims to inspire listeners to focus on gratitude and appreciate the little things that often go unnoticed.
The upbeat and catchy melody of “Aseda” mirrors the message of hope and positivity that Okyere intends to convey. By merging traditional Ghanaian rhythms with contemporary sounds, he manages to create a musical fusion that resonates with a wide audience. The song’s infectious energy invites listeners to immerse themselves in the celebration of life and their ability to overcome adversity.
While the pandemic has presented numerous challenges for musicians and artists, Okyere has channeled his creativity into creating meaningful and inspiring content. He believes that music has the power to uplift souls and connect people, even in the toughest of times.
Through “Aseda,” Michael K. Okyere hopes to remind listeners that amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there is still much to be grateful for. The song serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of gratitude in finding solace and joy even in challenging circumstances.
As an artiste, his ability to find inspiration in difficult times demonstrates his dedication to his craft and his commitment to spreading positivity through music. “Aseda” is a testament to his versatility and talent, showcasing his ability to merge different musical styles to create a vibrant and captivating masterpiece.
Enjoy the song below
https://youtu.be/vInPF-NKMic?si=mFS0mfw8CAX0YEtd
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