South Africa’s new visa policy for Nigerians simplifies travel for businesspeople and tourists, offering five-year multiple entry visas.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled a groundbreaking visa policy aimed at strengthening ties with Nigeria, simplifying travel for businesspeople and tourists.

Speaking at the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, attended by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Ramaphosa announced that Nigerians can now apply for visas without submitting their passports physically.

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To facilitate economic collaboration, the new policy includes five-year multiple entry visas for qualifying Nigerian businesspeople.

“This gesture aims to create a favourable environment for Nigerian entrepreneurs and tourists to travel to South Africa seamlessly,” Ramaphosa stated.

The South African President also reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing bilateral investment opportunities, pledging to eliminate barriers that hinder businesses from operating effectively in both countries.

He noted that South Africa is home to numerous Nigerian companies and called for increased Nigerian investments within its borders.

“As we mark 30 years of diplomatic relations, our strong bonds provide a solid foundation for deeper economic cooperation,” Ramaphosa said.

He highlighted ongoing efforts by both governments to improve the ease of doing business, ensuring investors from Nigeria and South Africa can pursue opportunities across diverse sectors.

Beyond bilateral ties, Ramaphosa discussed Africa’s collective development. He pledged to prioritise the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and address the challenges of the Global South at the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit, the first ever held on African soil.

Four foreign tourists have died from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos. Authorities warn backpackers to exercise caution with local alcohol.

Four foreign tourists have tragically died following a suspected methanol poisoning incident in the Laotian town of Vang Vieng. The victims include an Australian woman, two Danish citizens, and a US national.

The poisoning occurred after a night out on 12 November, when around a dozen tourists fell ill. Vang Vieng, a popular destination for backpackers in Southeast Asia, became the centre of this tragic event.

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Among the victims was Australian tourist Biana Jones, who passed away in a hospital in Thailand. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the death in Parliament, extending condolences to her grieving family and friends.

A second Australian tourist remains in critical condition in a Bangkok hospital. Her father revealed that she is on life support, adding to the gravity of the situation.

The deaths of two Danish citizens were also confirmed by Denmark’s Foreign Ministry, and the US State Department reported the loss of a US national. Additionally, New Zealand’s embassy in Thailand said it was assisting one of its citizens who may have been affected.

Laos police have detained the Vietnamese manager of the Nana Backpackers Hostel in Vang Vieng, where the two Australian tourists stayed. Authorities are investigating the source of the suspected methanol-laced drinks.

Both the Australian and British governments have issued warnings to travellers, advising caution when consuming beverages in Laos.

Methanol is a toxic alcohol sometimes added to illicit or homemade liquors to boost potency. Even small amounts can cause severe health issues, including impaired vision, digestive problems, brain damage, and death.

Incidents of methanol poisoning are not uncommon in Southeast Asia. Earlier this year, at least 34 people in India’s Tamil Nadu state died after consuming methanol-laced alcohol.

The incident in Vang Vieng highlights the risks of consuming unregulated alcohol in popular backpacking destinations. Travellers are urged to remain vigilant and prioritise their safety while exploring new locations.

This tragedy also underscores the need for stricter regulations and awareness to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The World Travel Market Summit underscored AI’s role in tourism, inclusive practices, and sustainable growth, setting the stage for the industry’s future.

The World Travel Market (WTM) Ministers Summit, held in London, spotlighted Artificial Intelligence (AI), inclusivity, and sustainable economic growth as core themes in shaping the future of global tourism.

In partnership with UN Tourism and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the summit gathered tourism ministers from over 20 countries alongside private sector leaders from Expedia, HBX Group, JTB Corp, and SITA, stressing the importance of collaboration and public-private partnerships.

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UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona opened the discussions, emphasising AI’s potential in the tourism industry.

Bayona highlighted the value of generative AI in helping the sector make informed decisions, promote destinations, and create personalised travel experiences.

She noted, “Artificial intelligence needs human intelligence to be bright,” underscoring the importance of AI working alongside human insight for the sector’s progress.

WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson echoed Bayona’s optimism, adding that tourism continues to be a significant economic driver.

She reported that the sector contributed nearly $10 trillion to the global economy in 2023, supporting 330 million jobs worldwide.

“By working hand in glove, we can ensure that Travel & Tourism continues to thrive, leveraging AI and other technologies to create a future that is resilient, sustainable, and inclusive,” she remarked.

The event also included Nigeria’s promotion efforts, as the nation showcased its cultural and natural tourism offerings.

Before Nigeria’s Ministry of Tourism was dissolved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there had been strong anticipation of the country’s involvement.

Nigeria’s virtual presence at the event highlighted its “untapped travel gems,” such as the serene beaches of Lagos, the ancient city of Benin, and the wildlife-rich Yankari, inviting potential investors to engage with its rich tourism landscape.

Over three days, WTM London attracted delegates from 184 countries, with more than 4,000 exhibitors and 200 speakers who explored the latest trends, including economic impact, diversity, and technology in tourism.

Jonathan Heastie, WTM Portfolio Director, celebrated the event’s turnout and expressed optimism for future growth, citing that last year’s deals reached £2.2 billion.

Inclusivity was a major focus throughout, with a DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) track featuring LoAnn Halden from the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association.

Halden advised companies to establish ‘internal allies’ to foster long-term diversity, while Jane Cunningham from Destinations International stressed that inclusivity in tourism must serve local communities as well as visitors.

Debbie Marshall of the Silver Marketing Association advocated for age inclusivity, encouraging authentic representation in marketing campaigns.

Inclusivity in tourism extended to religious diversity, as Hafsa Gaher of the Halal Travel Network advised hotels to consider adjustments for Muslim guests, such as offering Halal food options and removing alcohol from minibars.

Technological advancements in tourism were a major theme, particularly the push towards “frictionless travel.” Discussions focused on how tech improvements could streamline travel processes, with airline and tech leaders examining ways to overcome inefficiencies.

WTM’s Global Travel Report forecasted a record-breaking year for tourism, with international arrivals expected to hit 1.5 billion in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

The report projected that global leisure tourism expenditure will exceed $5.5 trillion in 2024, and the average length of stay for international trips has increased by 12%, driven by the trends of “slow travel” and “bleisure” (business-leisure) trips.

WTM London has been a hub of inspiration, innovation, and networking in the travel industry for 44 years. Through events like the WTM Summit, the platform empowers travel professionals to navigate new challenges, seize emerging opportunities, and foster a future of tourism that is inclusive, resilient, and enriched by technological advancements.