SA AIA and CTGA sign MOU

SA AIA and CTGA Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Professional Standards in South Africa’s Guiding Sector

Cape Town, Western Cape — 17 March 2026

The South African Adventure Industry Association (SA AIA) and the Cape Tourist Guides Association (CTGA) are pleased to announce the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking the beginning of a collaborative relationship aimed at strengthening professional standards across the guiding sector in South Africa.

Grounded in a shared commitment to ethical practice, safety, and professional growth, the partnership recognises and respects the distinct mandate, scope, and expertise of each organisation. The MOU establishes an association-to-association partnership focused on cooperation, knowledge sharing, and sector development, while preserving the independence and governance of both parties.

Importantly, the agreement does not constitute a merger, does not create automatic reciprocity of professional recognition, and does not grant automatic individual membership across either organisation. Each association retains full autonomy over its own membership criteria, professional requirements, disciplinary procedures, and strategic direction.

Through this partnership, SA AIA and CTGA may collaborate in areas including industry advocacy and representation, professional development initiatives, knowledge and research exchange, safety awareness, events and joint forums, as well as transformation and capacity-building efforts.

The agreement also reflects a shared commitment to educating members on the legal scope of practice applicable to guiding activities in South Africa, and to reinforcing the distinction between professional association membership and the statutory qualifications and registrations required by law.

This MOU represents a constructive step forward for both organisations and for the broader tourism and guiding landscape. It creates a framework for meaningful collaboration while acknowledging the importance of professional boundaries, mutual respect, and good-faith engagement.

This MOU, signed in March 2026, will remain in effect for an initial period of three years, with provision for review and renewal by mutual agreement. Through this partnership, SA AIA and CTGA affirm the value of working together to support professionalism, safety, ethical practice, and the continued development of South Africa’s guiding sector.

About CTGA

The Cape Tourist Guides Association NPO (CTGA) is governed by the Tourism Act; with firm roots based in the Western Cape. They are membership based and function through an executive committee, who give freely of their time and provide support and advise to members on both policies and day-to-day issues.

About SA AIA

The South African Adventure Industry Association NPC (SA AIA) is a member-driven professional body advancing safe, responsible, and credible practice across South Africa’s adventure tourism and adventure-based learning sectors through standards development, professional recognition, training pathways, and industry collaboration.

Media & Partner Enquiries:

Jessi Sunkel, Executive Director — info@saaia.org.za | +27 76 601 4997 | Website: www.saaia.org.za

Angelique Munoz-Cordoba, Chairlady – chairperson@tourguides.capetown | +27 82 044 3687 | Website: www.tourguides.capetown