Here’s how Airbnb is empowering local players in SA’s travel & tourism sector

Airbnb, the renowned accommodation platform, has been making strides in empowering local players in South Africa's travel and tourism sector. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Chris Lehane, Senior Vice President of Global Policy and Communications at Airbnb, discussed the company's initiatives to give locals a more significant share of the industry. Lehane highlighted Airbnb's commitment to supporting infrastructure in townships and rural areas by providing Wi-Fi hotspots, educating young entrepreneurs at the University of Johannesburg, and offering financial support to existing hosts. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive and economically impactful travel and tourism sector in South Africa. The focus on training and entrepreneurship is pivotal in ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds can participate as owners in the economy. Lehane shared a poignant story of a young entrepreneur in a South African township, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in the sector. With plans to expand the program to other parts of South Africa and potentially across the continent, Airbnb is set to catalyze a new generation of local entrepreneurs, enriching the travel experience for visitors and locals alike.