Sisa Ntshona, the former CEO of South African Tourism (SA Tourism), has embarked on a transformative journey in the hospitality industry, teaming up with Dream Hotels & Resorts (DHR) to acquire a substantial equity stake in the company.
According to dreamresorts.co.za, this strategic move comes through the establishment of Makhanyakude Holdings, a pioneering consortium dedicated to the management and operation of hospitality ventures.
In the wake of a devastating blow dealt by the global pandemic, Ntshona’s involvement signals a beacon of hope for the tourism industry. Nick Dickson, the CEO of DHR, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration, emphasizing the profound value of Ntshona’s expertise.
“As a key player in steering the tourism industry through the devastation caused by Covid-19, we are honored to have Sisa directly connected to our brand,” Dickson said. “We value his expertise and view our collaboration as a strategic step towards unlocking opportunities across South Africa’s tourism and hospitality value chain, not just for us as a business, but for the greater community within the sector.”
Makhanyakude Holdings, led by Ntshona, is composed of a team of industry stalwarts renowned for their extensive experience. The consortium’s unique makeup emphasizes inclusivity, with a network that encompasses female entrepreneurs, young changemakers, and tourism SMEs.
“While many have abandoned the tourism sector, we fundamentally believe in its recovery and future prospects,” asserted Ntshona. “By working closely with Dream Hotels & Resorts, a proudly South African company sharing our core values around growth, inclusivity, and transformation, we can bring about some real change.”
DHR, over the years, has garnered acclaim for its unwavering commitment to sustainability and community upliftment. With a growing portfolio of 21 properties, many situated in the remotest corners of South Africa, the company has demonstrated a dedication to the nation’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
“We have a particular interest in partnering with public and private sector tourism players to unlock the full potential of South Africa’s rich tourism,” Ntshona explained. He believes that their alliance is poised to create the ideal framework to drive substantial investments, ensuring the restoration and revitalization of the tourism sector.
“What we’ve learned during the Covid crisis is the value of working together and supporting each other. Everything that happens is a chance to move forward, but most of all, to actively create opportunities instead of waiting for them,” Ntshona concluded.
Following a three-month “cooling down” period following his departure from SA Tourism, Ntshona officially joined the executive team at DHR on September 1, 2021. This dynamic partnership between a tourism visionary and a hospitality giant represents a pivotal moment for South Africa’s hospitality industry, promising a brighter and more resilient future for all involved.
