Debt interest exceeds health, education spending in four-fifths of African countries, World Bank says
Sub-Saharan African governments are spending more on interest payments than on healthcare or education in nearly four-fifths of countries in
African ports are increasingly competing for the millions generated by cruise passengers spending money onshore after arriving at their destinations. Cape Town, for example, welcomed its first cruise ship of the 2026/27 season on September 17, the Pacific World, carrying 1,397 passengers and 655 crew members. Over the past three years, the city has seen rapid growth in cruise tourism, with passenger numbers increasing at an average of 16% per year, compared to the global industry average of 9%.
This growth has translated into a significant economic boost, with cruise tourism contributing R4.34 billion to the Western Cape GDP and R5.32 billion to the South African GDP across three seasons. The spending generated by cruise passengers is not limited to the main terminal; smaller ports like Mossel Bay, Hermanus, and Saldanha Bay have also seen a rise in passengers, generating R47.5 million in local expenditure in 2024/25 alone.
Ports are investing in infrastructure and developing more attractions to cater to passengers, with Cape Town's cruise terminal located within a R20 billion precinct redevelopment. Cruise passengers have limited time onshore, and ports that can connect a ship call to local businesses and attractions have a better chance of capturing spending.
Kenya is taking this a step further by promoting its safari economy, with the Kenya Wildlife Service offering a 30% group incentive for cruise travelers visiting national parks. This has already resulted in an estimated Sh50 million (R6.45 million) in economic benefits from a short cruise stop. However, longer calls can provide even greater opportunities, as seen with expedition calls to Cape Town, which have risen from five in 2023/24 to 16 in 2024/25.
These passengers typically spend more and are more likely to book extended land programs. Global port operators are also entering the African market, with Global Ports Holding expanding its presence in Mindelo, Cape Verde, and Seabourn Sojourn returning to Benin after years of limited activity. Mozambique is spreading cruise revenues through Maputo, expecting 15 cruise calls and nearly 16,000 visitors in 2026.
The government is coordinating arrivals with the national tourism industry to maximize the value of these visits.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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