Article re-cap
- The V&A Waterfront Academy earned a Gold Award for its work in skills development and creating employment opportunities for young people.
- The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company received a Gold Award for reducing environmental impact through waste reduction and local procurement.
- Unexplored Cape Town won a Silver Award for showcasing lesser-known neighbourhoods while supporting community guides and small businesses.
- The Cape Tourist Guides Association was recognised as One to Watch for its commitment to ethical guiding and professional development.
Several Western Cape tourism organisations received honours at the 2026 WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards held in Cape Town last week.
The V&A Waterfront Academy earned a Gold Award for its work in skills development, enterprise support, and creating employment opportunities for young people and aspiring entrepreneurs, according to the report.
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company also received a Gold Award for long-term efforts to reduce environmental impact through waste reduction, resource efficiency, and local procurement.
Unexplored Cape Town won a Silver Award for offering small-group experiences that showcase lesser-known neighbourhoods while supporting community guides, creatives, and small businesses.
The Cape Tourist Guides Association was recognised as One to Watch for its commitment to professional development, ethical guiding, and responsible tourism practices.
Stellenbosch-based Township & Village received a commendation for creating economic opportunities within township communities through tourism that prioritises local ownership and authentic visitor experiences.
The Western Cape Government said the awards reflect the province's reputation as a leader in responsible tourism by highlighting initiatives that create jobs, support small businesses, and preserve cultural and natural heritage.
Frequently asked questions
Which Western Cape tourism organisations won Gold Awards at the 2026 WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards?
The V&A Waterfront Academy and the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company both received Gold Awards. The Academy was recognised for skills development, enterprise support, and creating employment for young people and aspiring entrepreneurs, while the Cableway Company was honoured for reducing environmental impact through waste reduction, resource efficiency, and local procurement.
What does the Unexplored Cape Town award recognise?
Unexplored Cape Town won a Silver Award for offering small-group experiences that showcase lesser-known neighbourhoods while supporting community guides, creatives, and small businesses in the area.
How do these tourism awards reflect the Western Cape's broader priorities?
The Western Cape Government stated the awards highlight the province's reputation as a leader in responsible tourism by showcasing initiatives that create jobs, support small businesses, and preserve cultural and natural heritage.
What recognition did the Cape Tourist Guides Association receive?
The Cape Tourist Guides Association was recognised as One to Watch for its commitment to professional development, ethical guiding, and responsible tourism practices.
How does Township & Village in Stellenbosch contribute to local economies?
Township & Village received a commendation for creating economic opportunities within township communities through tourism that prioritises local ownership and authentic visitor experiences.
Source: atlanticsun.co.za
