Khayelitsha-based travel agency ABCD Concepts is redefining township tourism by offering immersive experiences that challenge prevailing stereotypes. Founded in 2015 by locals Buntu Matole and Ayanda Cuba, the agency aims to showcase the township’s vibrancy, entrepreneurial spirit, and rich culture, says 2 Oceans Vibe.
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Township tourism is a concept that, if done correctly and ethically, can be very economically beneficial for communities. While, in the past, some of these tours have been met with contention from locals – seeming to be doing more damage and perpetuating certain stereotypes – Matole and Cuba seek to do these tours correctly.
Khayelitsha, Cape Town’s largest township and the second largest in the country, faces challenges such as high unemployment and crime. However, it’s also a hub of creativity and community resilience; this is what ABCD Concepts aims to bring focus to. The real Khayelitsha that people call home.
Matole and Cuba work closely with the community to build and strengthen relationships and offer an authentic taste of the kasi (township).
That being said, the hosts don’t offer the stock standard hop-on-hop-off tour. ABCD Concepts offers visitors experiences like partying in the township and cycling tours through Khayelitsha as well as cooking with local families.
The agency’s innovative approach attracted the attention of Airbnb, leading them to become the first township-based experience hosts in South Africa.
Starting with just three visitors in their inaugural year, they now welcome over a thousand guests annually, with the majority coming from overseas seeking genuine cultural experiences in the township.
ABCD Concepts’ success exemplifies how township tourism can be transformed into a powerful tool for economic growth and cultural exchange, offering visitors a deeper understanding of communities like Khayelitsha.
Article written by Kate Wilson for Cape Town ETC.
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