As summer arrives, Cape Town’s suburbs and townships are set to welcome an influx of local and international visitors, drawn by the city’s unique culture, welcoming communities, and the warmth of its people.
This seasonal surge is a significant driver of economic activity in the Western Cape, with tourism contributing an estimated R27 billion annually to Cape Town’s Gross Value Added (GVA), accounting for approximately 7.7% of the city’s economy.
Recognising the importance of this sector, local communities and the City of Cape Town have collaborated on infrastructure enhancements and sustainable tourism initiatives to enhance the visitor experience and support local micro-enterprises that are central to Cape Town’s identity.
- The influx of visitors provides essential support to the township economy, creating jobs and opportunities for small business owners, artisans, and informal traders who are the backbone of these communities. In Cape Town’s townships, entrepreneurial spirit flourishes in vibrant markets, locally owned shops, and unique food stalls, offering authentic experiences for visitors while supporting the livelihoods of countless residents. Initiatives by community-driven organisations aim to expand economic inclusion in these areas, bridging employment gaps and empowering local enterprises to benefit from the tourism industry.
One of the main attractions of Cape Town’s diverse neighbourhoods is their rich cultural heritage. From the historic charm of Bo-Kaap to the lively energy of Khayelitsha, the bustling streets of Athlone, and the scenic allure of Muizenberg, each community offers visitors a unique perspective on Cape Town’s vibrant culture. Local businesses contribute a wide array of experiences, from artisanal crafts to curated culinary options that capture the essence of the Cape. This diversity, combined with the warm welcome from Cape Town’s residents, creates an inviting environment that makes the city a destination like no other.
In celebration of local pride, many brands from the Western Cape partner with communities and community-driven initiatives to uplift and upskill locals in various ways.
- One brand that consistently leads local initiatives is Jive Cooldrinks – a brand that prides itself on being part of the community. Jive has just launched its “My Jive, My Hood” campaign, which features special edition bottles showcasing beloved local suburb nicknames and offers a share of over R2 million in prizes. The campaign will conclude with a grand prize of R100,000 awarded to a community project selected through public voting, further demonstrating Jive’s commitment to the Western Cape community.
For more information, please visit https://jive.co.za/ or call (086) 150 0111. Follow Jive on Facebook @jivecooldrinks, Instagram @jivecooldrinks_, and X (Twitter) @jivecooldrinks.
