​The Joburg Tourism Company launched the Johannesburg City Tourism Association (JCTA) on Thursday, 27 September 2012, with the aim of promoting and developing tourism in the central business district.
 
The objectives of JCTA are to:
• Be the voice of the tourism industry in the city;
• Form partnerships and relationships with the private sector and government departments in the tourism sector locally, provincially and nationally;
• Be the catalyst for members and industry to interact regularly and share information for the greater benefit of the industry and the city;
• Use networks to promote advancement of tourism-related products in the city, and;
• Provide cost-effective marketing opportunities for members.
 
Isaac Chalumbira, the association’s chairman, said the JCTA would ensure a take-home value for members. These will include travel agents; tour guides; transport operators; hospitality industry; education and training sector; and the sports, entertainment and recreation environment.
 
He said the benefits for members will include connecting with the industry, government and tourism market, joint or singular sales and marketing advertising platforms, website development to drive tourist and service provider traffic to members, influencing and informing decisions affecting the industry, utilisation of government and industry platforms and trade shows at subsidised rates and to be the link to international, regional, national and local affiliate organisations to access business opportunities and collaboration with key tourism agencies and the media.
 
Gerald Garner, Managing Director of Double G Media, said Joburg was the greatest city in the world and a remarkable place to visit. “There is so much to see in Joburg and the city is blessed to have two world icons in former President Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, who lived in Joburg for twenty-one years”.
 
“The city is also privileged to have statues of struggle icon Albertina Sisulu and music star Brenda Fassie, and boasting top entertainment spots such as Kippies and Market Theatre”, said Garner.
 
The aim of the JCTA is in line with the City’s Vision 2040 Vision through which it seeks to make Johannesburg “a welcoming place” for everyone.
 
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