The concept of sightseeing in Johannesburg has come to be accepted as Touring Soweto. Of course, to some degree, this may be understandable – the populous township assumes a historical significance to the country’s inclusive democracy, as a place where the iconic Nelson Mandela once lived and was the scene of the 1976 Soweto uprising. But there are numerous equally significant options for tourists, both domestic and international, planning to explore South Africa, contends Dikgang Gordon Kontane, the managing director of Kotulang Securities.
Through Kotulang Securities, a company that provides tourism related services, such as transporting guests to various heritage sites and popular places, Kontane’s goal is to introduce the world to unexplored spots of interest in South Africa.
Kontane reveals to Transform SA Online that Kotulang Securities has concluded a plan to bringing more variety to people willing to explore the country.
He states: “We are out to prove that there is more to South Africa than popular spots and are on mission to put people on an exploration adventure. As a country, we have a number of advantages: the best weather, we are Africa’s most advanced country, a rich history, safari and destinations in different provinces.”
As a people’s person, Kontane sees his charisma as Kotulang Securities’ greatest strength over other service providers. “I am an open-minded person who enjoys the company of people. I also like to learn more about other cultures. I am also very patient, which is important for one to succeed in this industry, as tourists have very high demands which need to be addressed.”
Kontane singlehandedly manages most of Kotulang Securities’ operations. When he has huge clients, he outsources them.
Kontane’s big concern as an operator of a tourism industry small business is getting the right documents approved to run operations.
“The process of complying with the regulations that are related to tourism is long and complicated. It can be frustrating to someone interested in starting a tour operating business,” he bemoans.
Being in a business where clients are driven by perceptions, Kontane acknowledges that the misconception which people have of Johannesburg as “a crime capital” is hard to manage. “Due to news about criminal activities in the international media, tourists do not feel secure about themselves. It’s proving difficult to change perceptions.”
Kotulang Securities is based in Dawn Park, Johannesburg and does not have employees at the moment. Kontane’s wife handles the business’ marketing duties. “In due course, we will bring more employees on board. At the moment we are at a phase of putting basic structures in place,” discloses Kontane.
Kotulang Securities has grand objectives to broaden the business’ scope in future. “I want to leave a legacy in South Africa’s tourism,” he pronounces, pointing out that he is looking at covering the rest of Africa
Kontane divulges ingredients of running a successful business: “Work hard, Keep focused. Come what may it is never easy: be persistent and consistent. Over and above, never give up.”
