The Joburg Tourism Company (JTC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Thembinkosi Sindane as Senior Manager: Tourism Development. With a wealth of experience in tourism and local economic development (LED), Sindane brings an impressive track record of project conceptualisation, packaging and implementation.
Sindane’s career has spanned across several reputable local government institutions, including the Buffalo City Metropolitan Development Agency, uMgungundlovu District Municipality and Makana Municipality in Grahamstown. During his tenure, he secured funding for numerous LED and tourism development projects and played a pivotal role in transitioning the municipal spatial planning framework to align with the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA).
His extensive knowledge in investment facilitation has been key in attracting private sector investment in tourism, ICT and manufacturing projects. He has led initiatives such as the development of a heritage museum in Makhanda, as well as the Creative City Project and the Fingo Festival, a fringe component of the world-renowned National Arts Festival. He was also instrumental in the development of various tourism routes in Buffalo City and managed numerous place-making initiatives, including the development of digital interpretive boards.
Sindane’s appointment marks a significant step in JTC’s strategic objectives to expand tourism offerings in Johannesburg. His vision focuses on broadening the tourism supply base by developing products and facilitating investment in niche development areas such as sports tourism, medical tourism, real estate tourism and rail/transport tourism.
“The tourism sector holds immense potential for economic growth and job creation, and I am excited to contribute to its development,” says Sindane. “By focusing on niche areas to develop the sector, we can unlock new opportunities, particularly for youth and build the skills needed for them to participate in the broader tourism economy.”
JTC CEO, Thandubuhle Mgudlwa is confident that Sindane’s expertise and vision will enhance Johannesburg’s position as a leading tourism destination, driving innovation and inclusivity within the sector.
