By Simon Nare
The government is working on more initiatives to enable easy access for tourists wanting to visit the country, according to Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.
Speaking at the Execution Lab for the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan at Emperor’s Palace outside Johannesburg on Monday, De Lille described the plan as a historic and a bold collaboration between the government, private sector and other stakeholders.
It aims to unlock the full potential of the country’s tourism sector.
She said the priorities had already been identified and must be tackled in unison. Delegates needed to focus on action, innovation and measurable progress.
“We are here because we recognise the challenges in our sector. We know what our targets are for the next five years. But we are also here because we believe in solutions. As I have often said, we cannot keep doing the same things and expect different results,” the minister said.
The plan’s five priorities include ease of access, coordinated destination marketing, tourist safety and security, tourism product development and job creation.
“On ease of access, we are making real progress. Working with the Department of Home Affairs, the roll out of the electronic travel authorisation system is expected to begin next month.
“New initiatives in route development, air access and a new tour operators’ licensing system, which we are currently working on with the Department of Transport, are the potential game changers,” she said.
The minister told the meeting that South Africa must show the world that the country offered more than breathtaking oceans, mountains and wildlife.
Its heritage trails, vibrant townships and charming small towns were a unique experience that stood out in a crowded global marketplace, she said.
The minister said tourism was a pivotal player in the country’s economy. It was responsible for 1.6 million jobs and contributed significantly to the GDP.
She said the department’s ambitious target, according to the National Development Plan, was to have 15 million arrivals by 2030.
“This is achievable. That is why this plan is incorporated into the Department of Tourism’s annual performance plan and into the commitments I have made directly to the president,” De Lille said.
The minister called on the meeting to commit to growing tourism’s contribution to the economy by enabling South Africans to experience and enjoy their country, while at the same time welcoming more visitors by removing all barriers.
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