By Zamandulo Ntshalintshali
Eswatini has set an ambitious tourism target.
The country aims to attract two million international visitors by 2027 as part of a comprehensive national strategy to contribute E2 billion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through tourism.
This was announced by Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) CEO, Vusie Dlamini, during a media briefing at Mountain View Hotel, where the organization released its 2024 Annual Report.
The report indicates that Eswatini had 964, 880 international visitors in 2024, representing a 14. 5% increase from 842,441 visitors in 2023. Dlamini called this growth a strong sign of recovery from the challenges of COVID-19 and global geopolitical uncertainties.
However, the current figures still lag behind the pre-COVID peak of 1,225,520 visitors in 2019, leaving a gap of 260,640.
“We see this as a recovery from the challenges posed by COVID-19,” Dlamini stated.
He expressed optimism about the upward trend and highlighted the importance of targeted measures to maintain it.
Key recommendations in the report include continuously upgrading accommodation facilities and service standards. As tourism increases, the need for high-quality lodging that meets international expectations grows.
In 2024, the room occupancy rate increased to 39. 94%, up from 35. 24% in 2023, showing progress but also highlighting room for further growth.
The report also emphasizes strengthening collaboration between ETA, the government, and other stakeholders, especially in shaping policies that support tourism expansion.
Infrastructure projects, especially road network development, are identified as critical to making tourist sites more accessible.
With peak seasons drawing more visitors, the report suggests creating tailored tourism packages and experiences to maximize both occupancy and visitor spending.
Eswatini aims to position itself as a destination offering unique cultural, adventure, and eco-tourism experiences that appeal to a diverse range of international travelers.