Trevor Noah set to be paid R33 million for an advert

by Johana Mukandila

South African-born comedian and television show host Trevor Noah is set to receive R33 million to promote South Africa as a top tourist destination in a five-minute video.

The decision to spend such a large sum of money on a quick promotional film has generated controversy across the nation. Some see it as a daring move to capitalise on Trevor’s global recognition and captivating storytelling to attract tourists and economic opportunities. Others criticise the distribution of funds in light of the widespread economic hardships in South Africa.

According to News24, Patricia de Lille, South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, has been quick to point out that the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), will be responsible for funding this promotional campaign and not the government.

She told the publication mentioned above the following: 

“We were consulting tourism stakeholders, and they were all there. There is something wrong with the ears of the whistleblower, but I did say that this is being done by the private sector.”

However, Trevor’s five-minute video campaign to promote SA’s tourism to the world sparked mixed reactions from social media users. 

Here is what tweeps had to say:

Another user added:

While another X user simply wrote:

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