NELSON MANDELA MONTH - Department of Tourism
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EDITION JUNE 2021 01 NELSON MANDELA INSIDE THIS EDITION MONTH Tourism Budget Vote 2021 Dr Esther Mahlangu parters with Pareto Limited Deputy Minister of Tourism in Namibia Sam Nzima Lecture
INSIDE THIS EDITION 3 EDITORIAL CREDITS 44 TOURISM TRANSFORMATION AND RECOVERY A PRIORITY FOR THE SECTOR BUDGET VOTE 2021 PUBLISHER 56 WORLD RENOWNED DR ESTHER MAHLANGU BRINGS Department of Tourism HER ARTISTIC FLAIR TO A REVAMPED SOUTHGATE MALL FOODCOURT EDITOR 7 Blessing Manale 8 THE CHANGING ECONOMICS OF TOURISM DURING COVID-19 THEMBINKOSI LEHLOESA 8 EDITORIAL TEAM 14 “THE MAKHONJWA MOUNTAINS ARE A MAJOR DRIVE FOR BOTH Seapei Lebele 9 DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL TOURISM” Johannes Mokou Claudia Sebola 16 10 DOMESTIC TOURISM ACTIVATION IN KWAZULU-NATAL Annah Mashile 18 TOURISM TRANSFORMATION COUNCIL SUPPORTS MINISTER’S COURT BID TO DEFEND TRANSFORMATION OF THE SECTOR CONTRIBUTORS 12 Tourism Update 19 DM GEORGE DOMESTIC TOURISM ACTIVATION Monika Luel A BOOST FOR WOMEN IN WINE TOURISM Thembinkosi Lehloesa 20 Dr Laeticia Jacobs 14 21 TOURISM RECOVERY PLAN – THE ROAD TO RECOVERY Darryl Erasmus 22 15 VACCINATION ROLL OUT-HOW FAR ARE WE? DESIGN, LAYOUT AND PRINTING 23 THE FUTURE OF POST-COVID-19 GATHERINGS Spot the Print 16 24 SANPARKS INFRASTRUCTURE MAINTENANCE PROGRAMME: OUR RESPONSE TO COVID-19 DISCLAIMER 17 While every reasonable effort is made to maintain 25 TOP-FIVE TACTICS TO INFLUENCE A HOTEL’S POST-COVID current and accurate information in this publication, 18 RECOVERY the Department of Tourism accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions in this magazine. The use of 27 POLOKWANE GATHERS TO BREAK BREAD the content of this magazine is at the user’s own risk. 20 The user assumes full responsibility and risk of loss 28 2021 YOUTH MONTH CELEBRATION resulting from the use of the content of this magazine. 21 COVID, TOURISM AND THE WORLD The Department of Tourism or any of the legal entities 29 in respect of which information are contained in this 31 UPCOMING EVENTS publication, or employees of the Department of Tourism 22 or such entity, will not be liable for any special, indirect, 32 SAM NZIMA LECTURE – AN ICON REMEMBERED incidental, consequential, or punitive damages or any 24 other damages whatsoever, whether in an action of 33 COVID19 TOURISM RELIEF FUND (TRF) DEMAND CONTINUES contract, statute, tort (including, without limitation, 26 negligence), or otherwise, relating to the use of this 34 DEPUTY MINISTER OF TOURISM FISH MAHLALELA ATTENDS UN magazine or information. WORLD TOURISM MEETING FOR AFRICA IN NAMIBIA 27 28 30 31 32 JUNE 2021
EDITORIAL W elcome to this winter edition of Programmes, which was established by the Bojanala. This edition comes at a Department and how this all-important time when the country faces the initiative aims to stimulate growth and wrath of the third wave of this obstinate development in the tourism sector through pandemic. So far, more and more provinces the provision of financial assistance to have announced that they have indeed hit tourism enterprises. the higher than normal numbers. This has resulted in the new measures which have The edition also takes you through an array recently been announced by the president, of news, views and opinions. It also talk to as he took the country on Alert Level 3. the current vaccination roll out, the recently implemented infrastructure maintenance While this is the case though, I want to ask plan introduced by SanPark’s in response to that we do not despair. We should find hope the pandemic, as well as a voice from the with our government as it continues to roll Tourism Transformation Council of South out its vaccination plan. We must remember Africa (TTCSA) as they weighed in on the nonetheless that while awaiting our turn for current court bid. vaccination, we should continue being extra careful by observing the health protocols, Also, you will read about the 1st memorial especially in our various establishments. lecture about Sam Nzima as the country hails him as an icon worthy to be remembered. On that note, albeit quite worrying, you are This lecture and remembrance of Nzima once again most welcome to this Youth and could not have come at a better time, Mandela Month edition of our magazine. The as the country commemorates the 45th edition takes you through various segments Anniversary youth of 1976. He will forever which took place within the tourism space be remembered for his photograph of the between April and June. helpless Hector Pietersen . Some amongst these include the Tourism If you have not had a chance to read the Budget Vote, which took place in May. Read Tourism Recovery Plan, we have summarised about the priorities and plans set by the it for you. Thus, have a look at it as we Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi- together walk this road to recovery. Ngubane as well as the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela for the year ahead. Once more, thank you for your positive minds and as we weather the storm together, let us As always, Minister and Deputy Minister never leave other soldiers behind, no matter had an opportunity to engage with the how big or small they may seem. We need sector before the Budget Vote. On the cards every soldier on the other side of the river. during these engagements were various issues affecting the sector players as well See you all in Spring as a discussion around means to help them through a recovery process. Blessing Manale Read about the Tourism Incentive 3 BOJANALA
TOURISM TRANSFORMATION AND RECOVERY A PRIORITY FOR THE SECTOR BUDGET VOTE 2021 Staff Reporter “G overnment will not be deterred The Fund, launched in January this year, was Ngubane highlighted that while some success in its efforts to accelerate the designed to provide a combination of debt has been recorded in the implementation of transformation of the tourism sector,” finance and grant funding to facilitate equity the Tourism Transformation Fund – which is said Minister of Tourism Mmamoloko Kubayi- acquisition as well as new project development administered in partnership with the National Ngubane during her Tourism Budget Vote in the tourism sector by enterprises with 51% Empowerment Fund – it would be restructured. speech at a virtual parliament seating on black ownership. “This is in response to the feedback we received Tuesday, 18 May 2021. from entrepreneurs on their experiences with However, the processing of applications has the Fund in its current form. We are currently “As a Department we have responded to been interdicted by the court following an redesigning the Fund to be more efficient and the growing sense of unease amongst the application against the Fund by AfriForum and more accessible to entrepreneurs and we will previously disadvantaged emanating from Solidarity. be making an announcement in the coming the slow progress of transformation of the weeks,” said the Minister. economy – most visibly in the tourism “Once again, the efforts to transform the sector. Our Government has a responsibility economy to make it more inclusive are being Enterprise development – In order to increase to transform the economy and to create an frustrated. Our lawyers are studying the reasons participation of the SMMEs in the tourism inclusive non-racial society in which South for the interdict and a response to this shall be sector for inclusive economic growth, the Africans share equitably in the wealth of our provided,” said Kubayi-Ngubane. Department will expand its Incubation country. In this effort we shall not be deterred,” Programme to support tourism youth-owned she further said. During the Budget Vote debate most political SMMEs. This will include business support parties welcomed the TEF; the most critical and development through the addition of the Kubayi-Ngubane was largely referring to issue for tourism is to focus on stabilising the Tourism Tech Incubator (in partnership with the opposition – from other political parties (ACDP sector in order to preserve jobs. Technology Innovation Agency – TIA). The Tour and the Democratic Alliance) as well as trade Operators Incubator will also be implemented union Solidarity and human rights lobby Some of the key highlights of the Budget in this financial year. group, AfriForum – to the R1.2 billion Tourism include: Equity Fund (TEF). Tourism Transformation Fund – Kubayi- SA Tourism gets R1.3 bn – For the financial year 4 JUNE 2021
2021/22, the Department’s budget allocation presentation in Parliament, Deputy Minister of the local government infrastructure and amounts to about R2.4 billion, of which about Tourism Fish Mahlalela said that he was proud service to grow tourism, and accelerate service R1.3 billion is earmarked for South African of the collective resilience and determination delivery through the District Development Tourism. of industry players in ensuring the successful Model. Prioritised initiatives from our tourism implementation of initiatives set to steer the spatial masterplans will be integrated into the Protecting infrastructure and assets – sector on a path to recovery. plans for the OR Tambo District, eThekwini Protecting and rejuvenating supply entails Metro, Pixley Ka Seme District and Namakwa amongst others, the support for the protection “In spite of an increase in the hosting of District,” concluded Mahlalela. of core tourism infrastructure and assets. virtual and hybrid conferences, limitations “Our total infrastructure commitment is just on mass gatherings brought about by Internal staff members at Tourism House in under R700 million over a five-year period,” COVID-19 preventative measures have had a Sunnyside were also afforded an opportunity said Kubayi-Ngubane, noting that an amount profound impact on the meetings, incentives, to fully engage the Budget Vote as they of R270 million of the funds has been made conferences and exhibitions (MICE) sector. We grabbed snack packs before the speech began available to the Development Bank of Southern will continue to support small and medium- and relax in front of their computers and Africa (DBSA) who serves as the implementing sized events that drive domestic tourism, laptops in their offices while watching their agent for the Department’s infrastructure through partnerships and an enhanced principals delivering and debating the speech programme. A further R222 million has been National Convention Bureau at SA Tourism, online. This was to educate and keep the staff budgeted for this financial year. capable and agile to harness their potential.” informed of the Department’s plans towards the sector and country’s economic recovery. Also speaking during the Tourism Budget Vote “We will continue with our efforts to strengthen 5 BOJANALA
WORLD RENOWNED DR ESTHER MAHLANGU BRINGS HER ARTISTIC FLAIR TO A REVAMPED SOUTHGATE MALL FOODCOURT W orld-renowned, Dr Esther celebrate and reflect the richness and disruptor from an early age and Mahlangu has partnered with and diversity of the cultures of the is renowned as the first person to Pareto Limited to create her surrounding communities, the people of reimagine Ndebele design onto modern biggest indoor artistic works at the the South. This makes Southgate a true contemporary platforms. This has led newly revamped Southgate Food court. “Melting pot of the South”. to her painting anything from planes, cars, motorbikes and bicycles to canvas, To mark its 30th anniversary Southgate Dr Mahlangu, or Mam Esther as she is walls, mannequins and even wall Mall owned by Pareto Limited honoured affectionately called by many, learnt helmets. Dr Esther Mahlangu for her global the art of house painting from her success. The acclaimed visual artist grandmother and mother as is tradition Dr Mahlangu has spent extensive time and much-loved cultural ambassador amongst the Ndebele nation. in the world’s largest cities collaborating has collaborated with Southgate Mall with leading museums, galleries, to support Pareto’s vision to promote, She established herself as a visionary curators, art fairs and global brands. She 6 JUNE 2021
has worked with many iconic brands It is significant that the unveiling redevelopment of Southgate Mall’s food including, BMW, Rolls-Royce, SAA, British transpired during the month that Dr court into a world class facility and the Airways, Fiat, the Smithsonian Museum Esther Mahlangu turns 85 years of age. upgrade of the external fades. The of African Art and many others in her This is also the month in which she has development includes enhancements illustrious career that spans 7 decades. launched ‘Esther Mahlangu 85’, one of to the overall look-and-feel of the food a handful of solo exhibitions presented court offering quality, dining experience Malose Kekana, the GCEO of Pareto by her in South Africa, at The Melrose for families and friends alike, increased said “Dr Mahlangu’s lifelong devotion Gallery. seating area, large LED screens for to the Ndebele traditional art form, and entertainment, natural lighting, open her contribution to the South African Amongst the attendees at the closed and airy aesthetically curated space held heritage will leave a legacy in the world media event was, Executive Mayor of together by cultural cues and biophilic of arts. We are proud to have someone of Johannesburg, Mr Geoff Makhubo; touchpoints in line with international her stature to have agreed to be part of Chairman of the Pareto Board, Mr Saul design trends” continued Kekana. the new chapter for Southgate, and Gumede; Pareto Group CEO, Mr Malose believe that these murals when Kekana and Dr Esther Mahlangu to name Southgate would like to thank its considered together will most likely be a few. loyal shoppers and tenants for their the largest completed by Dr Mahlangu patience and cooperation during the to date and will be sure to attract The vision of the reconfiguration redevelopment process. tourists, art collectors and bring pride of the food court is anchored by to our stakeholders and communities” Pareto’s commitment to providing For more information on Dr Esther The unveiling of the 16 x 5m murals a superior customer experience to Mahlangu see www.themelrosegallery. took place on the 25th November at the its loyal customers and surrounding com and use this link to view ‘Esther newly revamped Southgate Food Court communities. Mahlangu 85’ her solo exhibition https:// to reveal the bold and abstract design themelrosegallery.com/viewingroom/ for which Mam Esther is so globally “The company is excited about 6-esther-mahlangu-85/ acclaimed. the investment made into the 7 BOJANALA
THE CHANGING ECONOMICS OF TOURISM DURING COVID-19 THEMBINKOSI LEHLOESA: THEMBIKONSIS IS ONE OF OUR BOARD MEMBERS IN E.CAPE C ovid-19 has changed the economics for tourism. A year after the disease emerged it now is possible to see that costs and markets have been radically affected. This is apart from the health conditions where previously tourists simply relied on their credit card or cash to enter a nature reserve. Costs in any economy are affected by demand. After Covid-19 started and since July 2020 economists have been advising countries to increase demand in their economies generally to grow their Gross Domestic Products (GDP) and make the economies recover. Data indicates the demand for tourism has distinct requirements from general demand. General demand relies on stimulus advocated by the economists. The demand of tourist destinations while it can be supported by the stimulus still has artificial barriers suppressing it. The requirement at airports which now has destination prior arrival in Britain. A list proof of a negative Covid-19 test from been implemented throughout the of countries is under each category your point of departure. Exempt from European Union (EU) including South developed. It determines what you must taking the test or proving a negative Africa is for travelers to pay for their do if you have been in the countries status are only children aged under 11. testing and if found to be positive also under any list. If you have been in a If the results are inconclusive you must pay for their quarantine and eventual country or territory on the red list in take another test. You do not need to return to their home countries. Travelers the 10 days before you arrive in Britain take a test if you began your journey to pay £1,750 to quarantine in hotels you will only be allowed to enter if you Britain from Ireland, Northern Ireland, in Britain. Furthermore, the Foreign, are a British or Irish citizen or you have Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Jersey Commonwealth and Development residence rights. or Guernsey, Falkland Islands, St Helena, Office (FCDO) has issued from 7 May Ascension or Myanmar, EU. If you are 2021 ‘red, amber and green list rules’ You must follow the rules even if you from Africa you do. The booking of for entering. They inspect the 10 days have been vaccinated. You must have another coronavirus test for after you 8 JUNE 2021
arrive is still at your cost. All this means or after day 8 of travel tests. These rules leading institution in South Africa is you cannot get to Britain without getting differ from those in the Red List. There the South African Medical Research advice including the latest information you will only be allowed to enter the UK Council (SAMRC) which presents the on coronavirus, safety and security, entry if you are a British or Irish citizen meaning results as already positive. The UK’s is requirements and travel warnings, all of you are banned. the Environmental Monitoring for Health which can be costly in the future. This Protection (EMHP) Programme, led by changes traveling for all countries. The The UK has administered 57.8 million the Joint Biosecurity Centre (JBC), a part economics support a domestic demand vaccines including 36.9 million people of the newly-formed UK Health Security economy. They are no longer about an with their first dose and 20.8 million Agency (UKHSA). South Africa too has international economy. The country best with both. It has the most advanced a new health agency – the National suited to adapt quickly to them and genomic healthcare system in the world. Health Insurance (NHI). It reports a new cope is Britain. Its government already Like South Africa it has a programme milestone of testing wastewater for more buys services worth £257 billion from its currently providing insights on the than two thirds of Britain’s population. private sector. Covid-19 variants first identified in India and South Africa. The work involves South Africa’s use of a Johnson and The Red List affects Africa most. researching sewage and chemicals. It Johnson vaccine is world standard. This Countries on the Red List are categorised is this programme the UK government further underlines there should be no to have a ‘high risk of exposure to boasts about partly in making its health discrimination. There is an assumption Covid-19’. The variant South Africa had in care system be the most advanced new passengers unknown to UK health November 2020 is stated as the reason. in the world in genomic sequencing. officials and who never tested within its Britain however suffered a variant too South Africa has just starting and can soil are able to mix with a traveller who in December 2020. From 24 December be estimated to have already vaccinated travels in transit a red listed country. So Britain suspended direct flights from 366,101 health workers 73,478 of whom they are required to test and quarantine South Africa. Visitors arriving into the UK since recommenced vaccination. Most of in the UK where they are found positive. and were in or transited through South the health workers came from northern Africa in the previous 10 days were KwaZulu-Natal and rural Eastern Cape. If all the costs are taken into account on refused permission to enter. British and average a traveller would pay R20,000 Irish citizens and third country nationals They vaccinated with the Johnson and extra what they used to pay to visit South with residence rights in the UK however Johnson vaccine the SAMRC confirmed Africa. Before the FCDO’s rules South were allowed entry via indirect routes has excellent protection of more than Africa had 15.1 million visitors. A quarter from South Africa. All that South Africa’s 80 percent and has no severe Covid-19 came from the UK. Department of Health has on the other side-effects or death. Side-effects in the hand for travellers into the country at vaccine are the same as United State’s (US) If a traveller is a citizen of a country in an ports of entry is the completion of a that include severe allergy (anaphylaxis) Amber List they can upon having tested questionnaire on travel history two days or the rare clotting condition called positive quarantine at home or in the prior arrival. The FCDO advises against all VITT (Vaccine-induced Immune place where they were staying for 10 but essential travel to the whole of the Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia) days. They will only be treated like citizens US. It is on an Amber List though it has affecting between one and four people of a country in the Red List if they have more than South Africa Covid-19. It has per million vaccinated . The vaccinated also been in or through a country on the one-fifth of world infections. The FCDO include the old aged. South Africa has Red List during their travel. Citizens of advises travellers from the US to take a no discrimination and does not boast Red List countries quarantine at hotels. Covid-19 test and get a negative result about being far advanced in genomic Because they bear most expenses if they during the 3 days before they travel, sequencing. The fact that it also has are not government officials who are book and pay for 2 Covid-19 travel tests the programme made no difference exempt they will require more foreign to be taken on or before day 2 and on to the FCDO in discriminating. The exchange. Restrictions by Number of countries in List of countries in Number of countries in List of countries in Red countries in Red List Amber List Amber List Red List List against nationals of other countries 3 United States, Australia 45 All African countries Angola prohibits entry except for Angolan Countries from other nationals, resident continents foreign nationals and Panama, Chile, Mexico visitors travelling for essential reasons. It has banned entry to arrivals from Brazil and India, with exceptions for Angolan nationals and those with residence permits who must go into mandatory quarantine on arrival This requires developing countries to they are relatively constant because Foreign arrivals were made up of 699,804 reignite their tourism sector focusing they are within a country. They have non-visitors and 3 886 583 visitors. on the domestic economy. For markets more enjoyment of heritage. The total Visitors were made up of 1 084 263 same- have radically changed too. Domestic number of foreign travellers who visited day visitors and 2 802 320 tourists with a markets had been traveling less because South Africa from Africa, overseas and breakdown by sex and age of 1 629 263 they do not have income. But unlike unspecified countries according to males and 1 173 057 females. About international markets that are seasonal StatsSA during 2020 was 4 586 387. 121,081 were less than 15 years, 227,962 9 BOJANALA
were aged 15-24, 737,033 were aged 25- of the heritage driving tourism. It must existence of even wildlife. The reason 34, 821,383 were aged 35-44, 471,212 increase to more than half or 52 percent. some of the legislation still exists such were aged 45-54 and 259,140 were aged Biodiversity programmes protected as the Transkei Conservation Act was 55-64. Adults aged 65 and older were Africa’s and South Africa’s natural to enforce the eviction of communities 164,509. StatsSA uses administrative inheritance sufficiently historically and along the Kei River. The creation and records from South Africa’s Department all that is needed now is continual population of Bantustans during of Home Affairs to compile the data. This management with the application of apartheid was made with the forbidding consists of residents and non-residents. laws passed since democracy in 1994. of Africans near the sea or a river. All white farmers supported that when they The refocusing towards the domestic It is a long body of legislation that exists vacated land for settlement within the market has the requirement therefore already that has never received violation borders of South Africa. of increasing the budget component from communities threatening the Drivers of employment in tourist’s Quantity Budgeting refocusing SMMEs 15,000 R15 million Investment in heritage infrastructure 45,000 R100 million Support services especially films and 5,000 R10 million distribution Digital technology 100,000 R73 million By 31 October 2020 countries had made from its London School of Economics A refocusing of Africa’s or South a total of 2,031 policy interventions (LSE) Centre for Economic Policy have Africa’s tourism budget towards affecting international trade generally researched the impact of Brexit. They heritage can grow SMMEs and build because of Covid-19 according to Global record Brexit caused more harm to new infrastructure. But the countries Trade Alert. That represented a total Britain’s GDP particularly the exchange would still need a regeneration of of 74 percent over the same period rate than Covid-19. Brexit made Britain’s manufacturing. For if more employment in 2019 and 147 percent higher than GDP fall by 20 percent which is more is not achieved and more growth is not in 2015-2017, The report is the most than China’s. China’s had a 6 percent created the institutions responsible for comprehensive yet to account for the decline yet it is the biggest economy tourism will close. Governments will add fallout from government measures of after the US. The total impact in terms to debt which already is at 15 percent if different countries taken to tackle the of infections and deaths of Covid-19 that foes not happen. Since projections Covid-19 pandemic since 2020. Tourism to Africa meanwhile has been minimal are still not near of Covid-19’s end ten does not show in these interventions compared to the economic impact. years may be the long-term into which especially the very drastic and this happens. Furthermore, the general discriminatory practices Britain has taken Hence, the International Monetary condition is such that more employment against Africa in total and Africa. There is Fund (IMF) revised growth projections even in sport will be lost. Football clubs of a general trade distortion of 13,6 percent for Africa from 5 Tourism in Africa thus which there are many will soon be asking of world goods covered and reforms stands to decline further because there for financial support to pay players. They covering 8,2 percent. Britain’s overhaul are from Britain policy initiatives harming have over six months been playing with of travel policies to the detriment of it including from the EU and the US. stadiums empty because of South Africa’s and Africa’s tourism in They are only open to each other in entirety happens as also economists anticipation now of the summer season. 10 JUNE 2021
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Covid-19 regulations. The global in South Africa in accommodation (5,424), of tourism revenue. Human beings governing body FIFA is in the same air transport (3,524), sports and recreation do not as the South African struggle position. In 2015-2018 it had a revenue (2,900), car rental (2,400), shuttle services against apartheid proved react quickly of USD 5,656 million funding 211 (4,000) and travel agencies (411). About to discrimination. Hence, a change associations. It had a budget of USD 4,5 percent of South Africa’s workforce in this picture can only be expected 1,746 million for the four-year cycle therefore was employed in tourism after 10 years. By that time South Africa 2019-2022. It is running out of money. representing 722,013 of 16.2 million would have had employment increased workers. South Africa receives annually annually by 2 million people. Social Table 2 above from the US Bureau of Labor approximately 100,000 Chinese tourists. unrest will follow. The US employs 0,2 Statistics shows labour in the country has The tourists spent R2.4 billion. By April percent of its workforce in industries that been receiving increases above inflation 2021 the direct contribution of the are related to tourism like filming. It will since 2015. Just before Covid-19 the tourism sector to GDP was 130,1 billion. not feel this impact. When South Africa increases were 7,5 percent. During the The UK had 132,384 visitors topping the refocuses marketing it will have to look 2008-2009 Financial Crisis traveling US list followed by Germany with 106,092 toward Nigerians that already are leading households spent on average $1,415 visitors. South Africa also had a travel in volumes. indicates that the number on transportation, lodging, food and ban on selected foreign nationals from of tourists decreased in all ten leading beverage, entertainment, and gifts while ‘high-risk countries’ on 18 March 2020. countries. Côte d’Ivoire had the largest on vacation. This was 3 percent of total Of the 53 land ports 35 were shut as percentage decrease of 77,4%.000 and household expenditures. The largest well as 2 of 8 sea ports. Should South length of stay has increased usually travel expense was for transportation. Africa lose the UK’s and Germany’s travel as groups and 44 percent of the This contribution generated 16,676 jobs visitors that will represent 56 percent total amount spent. All countries are affected by Covid-19. The US has lead in both infections and deaths. Therefore no country will borrow to FIFA. 12 JUNE 2021
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“THE MAKHONJWA MOUNTAINS ARE A MAJOR DRIVE FOR BOTH DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL TOURISM” - DEPUTY MINISTER FISH MAHLALELA 14 JUNE 2021
Deputy Minister Fish Mahlalela addressing the students. University of Preoria students with Deputy Minister Mahlalela and Chairperson of MTPA Board Thulani Nzima. Wits MSc Candidate Phumelele Mashele sharing her presentation. Staff Reporter D eputy Minister Fish Mahlalela from Wits University presented on mode” he highlighted. hosted Geology and Tourism extending the existing Barbeton students from University of Makhonjwa Mountains and linking In order to have a thriving socio- Witwatersrand (Wits), University of this Geo-trail towards other tourist economically inclusive industry, Mpumalanga and University of Pretoria attractions. It was proposed that the community involvement is pivotal. in an engaging networking dinner at Geo-trail be linked with one of the “In order for all the products we are African Rest Lodge in Nelspruit ,on 29 secondary roads that connect towards developing to be sustained, they must April 2021 ahead of the Makhonjwa the N4 which is a popular route used benefit the communities. If communities Geo-trail Tour the following day. The by visitors to neighbouring countries don’t see any beneficiation of any objective is to expose the Geology and and other provinces. This is in order to product, they will not be in a position to Tourism students together with the expose the hidden tourism gems such as protect and preserve it” Deputy Minister domestic travel market to the Barbeton the Nkomazi Game Reserve, Warm water said.The Makhonjwa Mountains are Greenstone Belt ancient rock formations springs in Badplaas, ghost mining towns a major drive for both domestic and that date back from the Archaean period, that have been turned into cultural international tourism” he added. more than three billion years ago. villages and pre-colonial iron ore mines that have tourism potential and hold rich “By exposing and giving the youth The Department has funded the cultural history especially to the Swazi access to the world heritage site, we Barbeton Makhonjwa Mountains Clan. believe our efforts will contribute initiative to enhance the tourism to the overall efforts being made to experience, prior to it being listed as In his address, Deputy Minister Mahlalela improve tourism numbers, thereby South Africa’s 10th World Heritage Site said that the importance of investing entrenching the culture of travel and by the United Nations Educational in domestic tourism as part of the tourism amongst the youth who are Scientific and Cultural Organisation recovery process cannot be emphasised our present and future travel market” (UNESCO) in 2018. A total amount enough and that to mitigate effects of Deputy Minister Mahlalela concluded. As of 24 million Rands has been spent the pandemic, the sector developed a the networking event drew to a close, between 2012 and 2014. The project was Tourism Sector Recovery Plan. students grabbed the opportunity to implemented by the Barbeton Chamber engage with Deputy Minister Mahlalela of Business in partnership with Barbeton “As government, we are very hard at with both hands, raising critical issues in Tourism Biodiversity Corridor, supported work to ensure that the resilience of the Geology and Tourism industry and by provincial and local government. the tourism sector is enhanced and mapping the way forward with solutions The project deliverable includes the continues to immensely contribute on how to grow the sector. The following development of the Geo-Tourism Route. to our country’s efforts to economic day, the students took an early, rainy and recovery and reconstruction; as tabled much educational trip to the Barbeton Shining the spotlight on the world and adopted by Parliament in October Makhonjwa Mountains. renowned Makhonjwa Mountains, 2020 and presented by the President. Phumelele Mashele, an Msc candidate We are on reconstruction and recovery 15 BOJANALA
DOMESTIC TOURISM ACTIVATION IN KWAZULU-NATAL 16 JUNE 2021
Staff Reporter D eputy Minister of Tourism, Mr Fish “To protect our economy and the sector Mahlalela, kicked off the Domestic we must use the funds provided to us by Tourism Activation Campaign government wisely; it was not sufficient with a visit to the uMkhanyakude but it made a huge impact in saving District, in the area of uMhlabuyalingana jobs and businesses from closing,” said on Tuesday, 20 April 2021. Deputy Minister Mahlalela. He was accompanied by the KwaZulu- He used the campaign to engage Natal MEC for Economic Development, beneficiaries of the tourism relief fund. Tourism and Environmental Affairs, They spoke of how the relief funding had Mr Ravi Pillay and Local Government helped to rescue their businesses from leadership as they visited various sites in closing and retain jobs. The engagements the district, including the Nhlange Lake, also focused on transformation of the Kosi Bay Lodge and Utshwayelo Lodge. tourism sector as a whole with a view to rapidly improve on the pace of The Deputy Minister also used the transformation in the tourism sector in opportunity to engage with various relation to ownership and control. tourism industries as part of assessing the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism “The sector must not only recover to sector as a whole. The programme is what it was before COVID-19 but it must part of the nationwide domestic tourism also be transformed. When you look at activation campaign being undertaken the tourism sector, about 60 to 70% of by the Department of Tourism with the labour force are women. But when the aim of encouraging South Africans it comes to management, women are to travel and experience the scenic nowhere to be found. This is a world- beauty of their own country within the wide phenomenon, but in South Africa confines of the COVID-19 regulations it is worse,” Deputy Minister Mahlalela and health protocols. The campaign stated. recognises that the boost in domestic tourism will offset the sharp decline in Site visits in Ilembe District included the the international travel market. Luthuli Museum in Groutville and a visit to the Fairmont Zimbali Hotel which On Wednesday, 21 April 2021, Deputy went under business rescue last year. Minister Mahlalela wrapped up his two- day visit to KwaZulu-Natal with a visit to Deputy Minister Mahlalela was satisfied Ilembe District in KwaDukuza. with the progress made so far by the provincial and local spheres of During the two-day visit, the Deputy government in assisting the sector to Minister engaged with various navigate through these trying times stakeholders within the tourism sector. of the pandemic, of which tourism These included the representatives of is the hardest hit, and committed community tourism organisations, tour the Department of Tourism in operators, tour guides, the hospitality partnership with the provincial and industry, women in tourism and local governments to address all the business people operating within the challenges raised and come back in the tourism value chain. near future to reflect on progress made. 17 BOJANALA
TOURISM TRANSFORMATION COUNCIL SUPPORTS MINISTER’S COURT BID TO DEFEND TRANSFORMATION OF THE SECTOR Staff Reporter T he Tourism Transformation Council poor performance on the promotion of in accommodation; hospitality; of South Africa (TTCSA) welcomes black management in general. The 2019 travel and related services. The Fund the Announcement by the Minister B-BBEE Survey Report and others also provides combination of grant funding, of Tourism on 29 May 2021 to defend highlighted that there is no change. concessionary loans and debt finance the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF). to support equity acquisitions and new Yet Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) and expansion developments in the Afriforum and Solidarity are contesting estimated that the direct contribution tourism sector. the legality and rationality of the 51% of tourism towards the country’s GDP black owned/managed qualification increased from R118, 977 million in 2017 “We reiterate that delays in criteria for the fund and have labelled (2.6% of GDP) to R130, 163 million in implementing the TEF will negatively it as racist, irrational, unconstitutional 2018 (2.7% of GDP) which was a growth affect black businesses which have and a deviation from the Tourism B-BBEE of 9, 4% compared to 2017. However, already negotiated deals and applied Sector Codes in terms of the Broad- studies showed that even prior to for the funding through the Small Based Black Economic Empowerment COVID-19, the economic benefits of Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa). So, it (B-BBEE) Act. tourism did not accrue to black people is our unwavering resolve that the fund as desired under the gazetted Tourism is a necessary intervention, within the The true intention of their legal contest B-BBEE Sector Code. constitutional values and imperatives seeks to maintain and perpetuate the for the creation of an equal society status quo where the sector remains “We need a transformed and shared and addressing the imbalances of our untransformed. tourism economy now than ever before country’s past. if we are serious about reviving our The 2018 State of Tourism image, particularly a tourists’ drawcard, Numerous reports continue to show Transformation Report revealed that of a rainbow nation of Tata Nelson that the country’s economy does not transformation in the tourism sector is Mandela”, said Ms Sangweni-Siddo, equally benefit all its citizens and is still very slow. Only a limited number of TCCSA Chairperson. predominantly owned by the white enterprises had achieved the 30% black minority, who make up only 10% of the ownership target. It was of concern The Tourism Transformation Summit held country’s population, whereas the black that less than 50% of enterprises in the in 2017 resolved that the Department majority (Africans, Coloureds & Indians) three sub-sectors (accommodation, of Tourism should establish funding who make up 90% of the population hospitality and travel) achieved the programmes targeting companies with are perpetually alienated from the minimum ownership targets, and less black ownership majority and control, mainstream economy. than 35% of them achieved targets for to create access to funding in order to black women ownership. With regard to stimulate economic transformation and “The council welcomes the Minister’s management control, it was shown that inclusivity in the sector. decision for taking the giant leap to despite the tourism sector employing make access to funding a reality and a large number of women, only 11% The historic R1.2 billion TEF is intended for putting the codes into practice to of enterprises had black women to fund majority black-owned and ensure that the economic benefits of representation at board, executive and black management-controlled transformation accrue to black people senior management levels with overall tourism enterprises (minimum 51%) as well”, added Sangweni-Siddo. 18 JUNE 2021
DM GEORGE DOMESTIC TOURISM ACTIVATION Staff Reporter N estled in the fertile Outeniqua This engagement also focused on The morning of the 15th May started valley, the Southern Cape transformation of the tourism sector as a with a breathtaking game drive at displayed all its splendour during whole with a view to rapidly improve the the Buffelsdrift Game Lodge which the Deputy Minister’s domestic tourism pace of transformation in the tourism showcased the fauna and flora of the activation in this region. sector in relation to ownership and Karoo. Thereafter the Deputy Minister control. proceeded to Oudtshoorn to visit to the To stimulate domestic tourism, the iconic Cango Caves. This spectacular Department of Tourism hosted a series “National government has developed underground tourist attraction largely of domestic tourism activations across the Economic Reconstruction and attracts the international travel market the country, lending impetus to its Recovery Plan to resuscitate the and he encouraged the domestic travel Tourism Sector Recovery Plan. economy. In response to this Plan, the market to experience the wonders of Department of Tourism has developed nature in the Caves. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr Fish Tourism Sector Recovery Plan which has Mahlalela, visited the Garden Route and since been approved by Cabinet. Deputy Minister Mahlalela concluded Klein Karoo town ahead of his Budget the visit with a Budget Vote Awareness Vote to engage various stakeholders The Plan and the gains made in the session. The Budget Vote Debate within the tourism sector. Risk Adjusted Strategy, are a result of coincides with rolling out of the extensive consultation and collaboration nationwide Domestic Tourism Activation Ever the proponent of skills development, between government, tourism sector Campaign. The campaign is aimed at on Friday the 14th May 2021 the Deputy and civil society. The Plan is set to revive encouraging South Africans to travel Minister hosted engagements virtually tourism, and set the sector on an optimal and experience the scenic beauty of with academics and tourism students path to recovery, transformation and their own country within the confines from Cape Peninsula University of long term sustainability” said Deputy of the COVID-19 regulations and health Technology. This highlighted career Minister Mahlalela protocols. The campaign recognises that opportunities in the sector as well as the the boost in domestic tourism will offset tourism landscape post-pandemic. The Deputy Minister further then visited the sharp decline in international travel the harbour town of Mossel Bay, home market. The picturesque town of George hosted to the Mossel Bay Zipline, the longest the Department where the Deputy over-ocean Zipline in the world. This The Deputy Minister was accompanied Minister proceeded to engage with tourist attraction is perfect if you enjoy by Executive Mayors of Garden Route representatives of Community Tourism adventure and adrenalin. District, George and Oudtshoorn Local Organisations, Tour Operators, Tour Municipalities and senior officials from Guides, Hospitality industry, Women in Thereafter, he proceeded to the the Provincial Department of Economic Tourism and business people operating historic town of Pacaltsdorp where he Development and Tourism Deputy within the vast tourism value chain in participated in the Pacaltsdorp historical Minister Mahlalela was satisfied with the the Garden Route and Klein Karoo area. walk, highlighting areas of indigenous, progress made so far by the provincial The Deputy Minister gave expression to cultural and historic significance. The day and local spheres of government and the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan with culminated in an initiative called “dine thanked them for assisting the sector to the focus on reigniting the domestic with locals” which is a culinary melting navigate through these trying times of travel market. This platform presented pot attraction, which offers local cuisine, the pandemic. an opportunity for tourism businesses -prepared by locals and shared in a local to raise concerns and challenges in the setting. This showcased the region in all sector. its diversity. 19 BOJANALA
A BOOST FOR WOMEN IN WINE TOURISM Staff Reporter W hile we are battling the pandemic restaurants, wellness spas, game lodges and which has been developed together with and learning to live alongside golf courses. More significantly, various wine the private sector. The plan elaborates on the virus, the business of tourism routes which offer a wide variety of activities, the actions that will be undertaken by has to continue. To this end, the Minister from horseback trails to mountain biking and various implementing agents, public and congratulated Nhlakanipho Holdings, hiking are also part of diversity of our tourism private, for the tourism sector to get on headed by Dimakatso Malwela, for the offering. the path to sustainable tourism recovery. launch of the House of D’licacy non- The Plan is anchored on three interlinked alcoholic wine brand. In a hybrid event, the South Africa is the world’s eighth-largest pillars or strategic themes: protecting and Minister officiated the launch and welcomed producer of wine and the wine estates are rejuvenating supply, reigniting demand and this new player to the market. part of our most visited attractions in our strengthening enabling capability for long country. Globally, South African wines are term sustainability. The tourism sector has suffered a regarded as some of the best wines in the devastating blow with the onslaught of market and they have carried our country’s The addition of a new brand into this the COVID-19 pandemic. And while the brand to all corners of the world. The wider important sector can only bode well for our pandemic continues, this sector will, in the economic benefit of this industry is that in economy and for the economic recovery. meantime, have to operate alongside the the process of manufacturing, packaging, More importantly, the addition of a black- virus, potentially facing numerous stop/ exporting and distributing wine products, woman owned wine brand enterprise is a start cycles as restrictions are changed and throughout the entire value chain, the local positive step for economic transformation adjusted in line with the evolution of the wine industry supports a wide spectrum of not only for the wine industry but for tourism virus. economic activity. These includes a wide and the wider economy. range of producers and suppliers, such The close links between the wine industry as wine grape farmers, as well as retailers, Women in the tourism sector are in the and tourism is part of the reason why the distributors and the downstream industries majority in terms of participation however pandemic has had negative impact on the such as hospitality industry, restaurants and they are found at very low level jobs. This wine industry. The global collapse of the so on. initiative will involve women and youth tourism supply and demand market, led in tourism business; and that the launch to a significant reduction in the number A study commissioned by the wine industry will be followed by Non-alcoholic Wine of travellers. This means that hotels and body, Vinpro, found that wine tourism is a Transformation Programme through the restaurants are seeing lower occupancy significant revenue generator for the South Women of Value SA’s enterprise development levels and patronage respectively. African economy having contributed R7.2 incubator. billion to GDP in 2019. This includes direct Given the direct link between tourism and expenditure of a visitor at a wine farm, The main objective of the House of D’Licacy hospitality and the wine industry in terms of indirect expenditure of goods bought by is to house non-alcoholic women-owned providing an outlet for the consumption of wineries from other local businesses to brands and also assist them by creating local wine, the lower demand was felt across the deliver the tourism service, as well as induced and export marketing. It is important that value chain. As a result of fewer visitors, the expenditure by the wineries’ employees at as we rise, especially as women, we also lift revenue generated at the wine farms has shops. others who need a helping hand. reduced and several wineries have shut their tasting rooms due to the risks of the virus. The wine industry is indeed an important The collective management of the pandemic The wine industry is an important part of contributor to the South African economy combined with the vaccination programme the tourism value chain. South Africa has an in terms of jobs, the multiplier effect and will push our country to a new equilibrium in increasing number of world-class restaurants, national income. To reverse the impact which there will be some level certainty. The with South African wines being part of the of the devastation of the tourism sector sooner we attain this certainty the better for highlight. In the Western Cape the wine by the pandemic, we have outlined the our economic recovery. In the meantime, we industry is a boon for hotels, guesthouses, Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (TSRP) have to adapt to our new normal. 20 JUNE 2021
TOURISM RECOVERY PLAN – THE ROAD TO RECOVERY Staff Reporter T he tourism sector is one of the as the South African brand continue to be a regional value proposition and a critical intervention areas that have under pressure due the country’s association seamless visitor experience. been identified in the Economic with the 501Y.v2 variant of the COVID-19 • Review and transform institutional Reconstruction and Recovery Plan as virus. architecture to deliver efficient, tourism is a key driver of the economic effective and purpose-led support recovery in the country. The Department of The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan for sector growth and development. Tourism together with its stakeholders, have (TSRP) is a response by the sector and collaborated to develop the robust Tourism its constituent partners to the multiple The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan is Sector Recovery Plan. challenges brought on by the pandemic. therefore a targeted response by the sector This Plan is anchored on three interlinked and its constituent partners to the multiple Tourism is a vital contributor to the South pillars or strategic themes: protecting and challenges brought on by the pandemic. This African economy. With its extensive value rejuvenating supply, reigniting demand and Plan acknowledges the need for targeted and chain and labour absorption capacity, it strengthening enabling capability for long coordinated action to mitigate the impacts is acknowledged as a tool for economic term sustainability. of the crises and sets the sector on the most development, playing a significant role in optimal path to recovery, transformation and responding to the country’s socio-economic Rejuvenate Supply long term sustainability. challenges. Among these, is the provision of • Conclude a comprehensive industry employment to individuals of varying skills and government partnership to Developments around the global levels, the employment of women including collaborate on all aspects of tourism deployment of COVID-19 vaccines are likely in rural areas and ensuring the geographic recovery. to boost tourism consumer and business spread of tourism benefits. The sector is • Deploy an enhanced Tourism Supply confidence. However, the distribution also a significant foreign exchange earner. Support Package to protect tourism of the vaccines is likely to be uneven. It It further impacts on the wider economy assets and core infrastructure. will also take time to achieve population through its significant forward and backward • Implement globally recognised immunity in many parts of the world. The linkages with other economic sectors. biosecurity protocols across the value International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects chain to enable safe travel and to that with growing vaccine availability, The COVID-19 pandemic introduced an rebuild traveler confidence. improved therapies, testing, and tracing, unprecedented crisis to the global economy. • Convene a national air access team and local transmission of the virus is expected Tourism was one of the first economic implement an air service development to be brought to low levels across the world sectors to be deeply impacted by the programme to reconnect South Africa only by the end of 2022. The situation is pandemic with measures to contain its to the world. further compounded by the uncertainties spread, including restrictions on movement. around the efficacy of the vaccines against Operations were halted under various Re-ignite Demand new variants. phases of lockdown and tourism revenues • Partner with departments to remove were severely diminished. The sector is thus barriers to travel and enable freer entry, While forecasting the full extent of the facing profound and simultaneous demand reduced tourist crime and provide impact the pandemic on the tourism sector and supply shocks. stronger personal safety and security remains a challenge, it is clear that a return guarantees. to business as usual is not possible. This is Historically, the tourism sector has • Catalyse domestic demand through the exacerbated by the continued possibility of demonstrated resilience through global phases of economic re-opening with the emergence of different variants of the financial meltdowns and health pandemics. informative and inspirational messaging virus coupled with the occurrence of new However, the scale and depth of the that encourages safe tourism and “waves” almost imposing seasonality of their disruption caused by the COVID-19 health domestic vacation experiences. own. The sector has to operate within a “new and economic crisis suggest that the road • Execute a global marketing and travel normal” context, which includes finding ways to tourism recovery will be long and highly trade programme targeted at higher for the tourism economy to coexist with the uncertain. The United Nations World Tourism potential source markets and intrepid virus, at least in the short to medium term. Organisation (UNWTO) expects the sector to travel consumer segments to re-ignite return to pre-crisis levels only in 2023. Until international demand. The implementation of interventions then, the sector will largely be in survival outlined in the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan mode. Many tourism jobs remain at risk, Strengthening Enabling Capability are aimed at not only returning the tourism while some businesses within the sector face • Launch an investment and market entry sector’s performance to levels it reached the possibility of a permanent closure. facilitation programme to stimulate before the outbreak of COVID-19, but to Destinations globally are grappling with capital investment, transformation and place it on a long-term sustainable growth the challenge of reigniting their tourism product diversification. trajectory that fully realises South Africa’s vast economies. Key source markets have placed • Prioritise cooperation with and diverse tourism potential. travel restrictions to and from South Africa neighbouring destinations towards 21 BOJANALA
VACCINATION ROLL OUT- HOW FAR ARE WE? Staff Reporter A vaccine is intended to provide settings, persons over 60 years and persons more people have died in South Africa after immunity against COVID-19.In general, over 18 years with co-morbidities. Phase 3 contracting the coronavirus, pushing the vaccines contain weakened or inactive will focus on persons older than 18 years, national death toll to 57,879.The country has parts of a particular organism that triggers targeting 22,500,000 of the population. also recorded 5,552 infections over the past an immune response within the body. This 24-hour cycle, taking the known caseload weakened version will not cause the disease A month after the vaccinations kicked off since the start of the pandemic to 1,752,000. in the person receiving the vaccine, but it will beyond healthcare workers, by the end of So far, 1,611,000 people have recuperated prompt their immune system to respond. 13 June a total of 1,297,520 people aged so far, which works out to a recovery rate of Some vaccines require multiple doses, given over 60 had received the first of two Pfizer 91.9%. weeks or months apart. This is sometimes doses. Just over five million over-60s in the needed to allow for the production of country were meant to be vaccinated by the Meanwhile, Aspen Pharmacare has now long-lived antibodies and development end of June, according to the national health detailed its plans to bolster South Africa’s of memory cells. In this way, the body is department’s own targets. Earlier targets, like COVID-19 vaccine rollout after batches of the trained to fight the specific disease-causing vaccinating 1.2 million healthcare workers, Johnson & Johnson vaccine were found to organism, building up memory against the were also not reached. At the end of the be contaminated and had to be destroyed. pathogen so it can fight it in the future. Sisonke J&J vaccine trial, a total of 479,768 Johnson and Johnson will “within days” healthcare workers got the jab, according to provide the country with 300,000 vaccine The vaccine rollout is carried out in a three- official records. doses “for South African teachers”, Aspen said phase approach that begins with the most in a statement. Johnson & Johnson will also vulnerable in our population. Our target is to The latest figures from the Health deliver “substantial quantities” of finished vaccinate 67% of the population by the end Department show that 3,871 vaccines were vaccines to South Africa “to replace the lost of 2021, which will allow us to achieve herd rolled out over the past 24-hour cycle. These stock thereby ensuring the momentum immunity. Phase 1 will focus on frontline take the number of people who’ve now in the South African vaccine initiative is healthcare workers; Phase 2 will vaccinate had at least one dose of a COVID-19 shot to maintained”. essential workers, persons in congregate 1,777,288.Over the same 24-hour period, 114 22 JUNE 2021
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