tourism safety monitors duties

A Look at Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships in South Africa

South Africa’s tourism industry is a vital contributor to the country’s economy, providing employment opportunities and attracting millions of visitors every year. However, ensuring the safety of tourists and maintaining a positive visitor experience is of utmost importance. One crucial aspect of achieving this is the role of Tourism Safety Monitors, who are integral to the tourism sector’s success. This article explores the concept of Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships in South Africa, shedding light on the stipends, responsibilities, and their significance in promoting tourism safety and enhancing the visitor experience.

The Role of Tourism Safety Monitors

Tourism Safety Monitors are trained individuals who play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of tourists in popular South African destinations. Their tasks include interacting with tourists, offering assistance, providing information, and reporting safety concerns and incidents to relevant enforcement agencies. These monitors act as ambassadors for the country, contributing to a positive image of South Africa as a welcoming and secure destination.

1. Interacting with Tourists

One of the primary responsibilities of Tourism Safety Monitors is to interact with tourists. They offer a friendly and approachable presence, welcoming visitors and making them feel at ease. This interaction helps create a positive first impression and contributes to a memorable visitor experience.

2. Providing Information

Tourism Safety Monitors are well-informed about the local attractions, services, and facilities. They can provide tourists with useful information, such as directions, cultural insights, and recommendations for places to visit and dine. This enhances the overall visitor experience and encourages tourists to explore the area further.

3. Reporting Safety Concerns

Another crucial role of Tourism Safety Monitors is to report safety concerns and incidents. They act as the eyes and ears of the local authorities and law enforcement agencies, helping to identify and address potential safety issues promptly. Their vigilance contributes to a safer environment for tourists and residents alike.

Learnerships for Tourism Safety Monitors

Learnerships are structured training programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical work experience. They are designed to equip participants with the skills and competencies required for a specific job role. In South Africa, Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships are aimed at developing individuals who can effectively fulfill the responsibilities of this important position.

1. Eligibility

To participate in a Tourism Safety Monitors Learnership, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria, which may include educational qualifications, age restrictions, and relevant background checks. These criteria are established to ensure that learners are well-suited for the role and can contribute effectively to the tourism sector.

2. Training and Development

The learnership program includes a comprehensive training and development component. Learners receive training in areas such as customer service, safety protocols, first aid, communication skills, and local tourism knowledge. This training equips them with the necessary skills to excel in their role as Tourism Safety Monitors.

3. Work Experience

In addition to classroom-based training, learners are also provided with practical work experience. They have the opportunity to work alongside experienced monitors, gaining real-world exposure to the responsibilities and challenges of the job. This hands-on experience is invaluable for their professional development.

One of the key aspects of Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships is the provision of a stipend. Learners receive a financial allowance while they undergo training and gain work experience. This stipend serves as a source of financial support during the learnership and helps to make the program accessible to a wider range of candidates.

The Significance of Tourism Safety Monitors Learships

Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships are essential for several reasons, as they contribute to the overall success of South Africa’s tourism industry and its economic impact.

1. Improved Safety

By training and deploying Tourism Safety Monitors, South Africa can significantly improve the safety and security of tourists. These monitors are trained to identify and respond to potential safety concerns promptly, creating a safer environment for both visitors and locals.

2. Enhanced Visitor Experience

Tourism Safety Monitors play a crucial role in enhancing the visitor experience. Their friendly and helpful interactions with tourists create a positive and welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel valued and at ease. This, in turn, encourages tourists to explore more, spend more, and return in the future.

3. Job Creation and Skills Development

Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships provide opportunities for job creation and skills development. They empower individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for the role, increasing their employability in the tourism industry. This, in turn, contributes to economic growth and reduced unemployment.

4. Positive Image

Having a visible and approachable team of Tourism Safety Monitors contributes to a positive image of South Africa as a tourist-friendly and secure destination. A good reputation for safety and hospitality can attract more tourists and boost the tourism sector’s growth.

5. Economic Impact

Tourism is a significant contributor to South Africa’s economy. The success of the tourism industry has a ripple effect on various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and retail. Ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for tourists is vital for sustaining and growing this economic impact.

Case Study : The Impact of Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships in South Africa

To understand the practical impact of Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships, let’s explore a specific case study in a South African city.

[You can insert a real or hypothetical case study here based on the provided links and additional information. Discuss the specific learnership program, its success in enhancing safety and visitor experience, and the economic benefits it has brought to the local community.]

Tourism Safety Monitors Learnerships are a crucial component of South Africa’s efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists while enhancing their overall visitor experience. These programs provide aspiring monitors with the necessary skills, practical experience, and financial support to excel in their roles. The presence of well-trained and approachable Tourism Safety Monitors contributes to a positive image of South Africa as a tourist destination and has a substantial economic impact on the country.

As South Africa continues to invest in the development of Tourism Safety Monitors, the tourism sector is expected to grow, creating more job opportunities , improving safety, and offering a warm welcome to tourists from around the world. These learnerships are a testament to the country’s commitment to promoting tourism while prioritizing the safety and satisfaction of its visitors.

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Please take note that successful candidates will be expected to sign an eighteen month (18) contract with Networx for Career Development and host employers/sites. It is essential to mention your Local Municipality, ward number and name of the location in your CV with clear contact numbers.

Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

• The Learner must be unemployed
• Have a minimum of Grade twelve (Matric) qualification and must be literate and conversant in English. Tourism and Geography will be an added advantage
• Be a resident of the Local Municipality (Proof required)
• Have a passion or interest for Tourism and Safety.
• Persons retrenched from the hospitality industry and presently unemployed (at least for a year),
• Applicants must be between the ages of 18-35 years, If an applicant is below the age of 21 consent from parent or guardian is required
• You must not have participated in any EPWP/Department of Tourism funded projects in the last two years.
• Not more than one learner per household
• Must be able to provide a clean police clearance.

Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates. Applicants who meet the above requirements should submit a detailed CV together with certified copies of qualifications, proof of residence not older than three months and identity document.

Click here for submission details .

Also note that all applicants will undergo a fitness assessment training before being considered for interview, and shortlisted candidates post the interviews, will also undergo security vetting

NB: Faxed and e-mailed applications will not be considered.

Participants will be deployed within their local municipality i.e. where they have residence.

Should you not have been contacted for an interview within three (3) months after the closing date you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

Enquiries: Bonginkosi Hlongwane Cell: 068 201 4104

Closes: Tuesday, 15 October 2019 Location: Various locations, South Africa

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2 300 tourism safety monitors to be trained

The Department of Tourism has earmarked R174.5 million (€8.7m) for the training of over 2 300 tourism safety monitors in South Africa during this financial year.

The monitors will be deployed to all provinces before the peak summer season starts to assist in safeguarding top tourist attractions and national parks.

This was announced by Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille , at the launched of the country’s Summer Campaign in the Eastern Cape recently.

“We acknowledge the legitimate concerns that have arisen due to unfortunate incidents involving tourists. We want to provide unequivocal assurance to the public, domestic travellers, and those planning visits to our country in the near future that we are vigorously advancing our efforts to enhance safety for all,” she said.

The tourism safety strategy encompasses a range of initiatives, including substantial investments in technology and human resources.

De Lille’s announcement follows her commitment earlier this year to review the Tourism Monitors Programme which had come to an end in the last financial year.

The Minister said while the initial 2023/24 financial year Departmental budget was allowed for the training of 1 845 Tourism Monitors across the country, she had asked the department to increase the number of monitors to 2 215.

“We have identified, in consultation with the private sector, 59 hotspots across the country. The deployment of Tourism Monitors will be prioritised to service these sites,” said De Lille.

She noted that the government and private sector also had to work “hand-in-hand” with communities in tourist attraction areas to take ownership of their community and understand the value and need to protect the tourist spaces around them. “Communities must understand and be brought on board to help grow tourism in their areas,” she said.

Responsibilities

The monitors’ responsibilities include patrolling identified attractions, promoting tourism awareness, providing essential information to tourists, and promptly reporting any criminal incidents to SAPS and other pertinent enforcement agencies.

These young monitors will receive an NQF 3 certification and additional training from the South African Police Service. Their deployment is scheduled for late October to early November, perfectly aligning with the summer tourist season.

“Furthermore, I’m pleased to share that the Department of Tourism now has a representative on the Stability Priority Committee at NatJoints with members from all law enforcement agencies, reinforcing our commitment to safety,” De Lille highlighted.

She said her department had also collaborated with SAPS to develop tourist safety tips, conveniently accessible via a QR-code scan.

These safety tips have also been integrated into the MY-SAPS App for easy reference.

SAPS is actively working on enhancing its app’s features and promoting greater awareness about its availability.

“All these multifaceted measures and collaborations underscore our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all tourists exploring our beautiful nation,” said De Lille.

“In our effort to address the myriad challenges before us, collaboration becomes paramount. The period we are emerging from has imparted a valuable lesson – that through collaborative endeavours, we can achieve the seemingly impossible.

“Competitiveness in our industry hinges on collaborative efforts. Indeed, collaboration has emerged as the driving force for progress.”

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Tourism safety monitors to be trained for peak summer season.

The Department of Tourism has plans to train 2 300 safety monitors to protect tourism attractions and parks over the busy South African summer season.

Safety monitors to be deployed

The South African Department of Tourism has reportedly set aside R174.5 million for the training and deployment of 2 300 tourism safety monitors for the country.

The news of this was announced by Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, at the South African Summer Campaign in the Eastern Cape recently, reports Tourism Update .

ALSO READ: Gauteng’s Cradle of Humankind set to boost tourism economy

“We acknowledge the legitimate concerns that have arisen due to unfortunate incidents involving tourists. We want to provide unequivocal assurance to the public, domestic travellers, and those planning visits to our country in the near future that we are vigorously advancing our efforts to enhance safety for all,” Minister de Lille said.

ALSO READ: Must-visit remembrance tourism sites to see in South Africa

Protect and promote

The safety monitors will be placed in all provinces before the busy summer season starts to help protect top tourist attractions and national parks.

“We have identified, in consultation with the private sector, 59 hotspots across the country. The deployment of Tourism Monitors will be prioritised to service these sites,” De Lille added.

ALSO READ: Domestic tourism brought in a massive R100 billion in 2022

Some of the the safety monitors’ responsibilities will include patrolling tourism attractions, promoting tourism awareness, providing essential information to tourists and efficiently reporting any criminal incidents to SAPS and other relevant enforcement agencies.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY SUNDEEKA MUNGROO

Sundeeka Mungroo

Sundeeka Mungroo is a content writer, foodie and all-round adventure-seeker. She's a graduate of the University of South Africa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, and has worked as a copywriter and editor in the digital marketing industry. Sundeeka currently writes for I Love South Africa and The South African. She lives in the beautiful Mother City and loves exploring all that South Africa has to offer.

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Tourism safety monitors.

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As previously indicated I have informed you of the Tourism Monitors that have been placed in Cape Agulhas to assist with tourism related queries in and around our area. The monitors have completed their first segment of training and will work December - January in our town to assist with tourism matters.

I have requested that if there are stakeholders who wish to make use of the monitors to assist with operations at guest houses, restaurants, info centres or attractions please let me know. These monitors can assist with administrative queries, safety monitoring, handing out tourism information on the town and Cape Agulhas as a region.

Here is more detailed information on the Learnership.

Tourism Monitors:

The Tourism Monitors Programme is a Tourism focused youth development-training programme that is funded by the National Department of Tourism (NDT). It aims to recruit and train 300 unemployed youth over a twelve month period. Participants will be part of the programme for twelve months, during which they will receive accredited and non-accredited training and will be provided with mentored workplace integrated learning opportunities.

The Programme also aims to engage young South Africans in community service activities in order to strengthen service delivery, promote nation building, foster social cohesion and assist the youth gain occupational skills necessary for the job market and to provide opportunities for the creation of sustainable livelihoods.

To provide meaningful workplace-based experience, The Department of Tourism has appointed Networx, whom seeks to partner with host organisations working in the environmental, conservation, eco-tourism and community service sectors, with the aim being for these organisations to host one or more of the participants for twelve months. The intention is to give the participants an opportunity to grow their professional networks and increase their opportunity to gain either employment or further training in the sector

The Tourism Safety Monitors Programme aims to ensure that tourists are safe and have access to information while enjoying their experiences in South Africa. The programme places youth aged 18-35 in tourism hubs like Bredasdorp, Struisbaai and L’Agulhas, where they will ensure the safety of tourists and give information on tourist activities of the specific town. 21 Monitors will be placed in Cape Agulhas of which 4 monitors per town will be allocated.

This project not only provides the participants the necessary experience but also the opportunity to earn a monthly stipend for a period of 12 months. The recruits have started with theoretical training on 1 September and will be deployed as from 1 December 2021 in the various towns of Cape Agulhas.

Cape Agulhas Tourism Promotion Office represents Arniston / Waenhuiskrans, Agulhas, Struisbaai, Elim, Bredasdorp and Napier which all form part of the Cape Agulhas region. The office is based in Bredasdorp and is the central hub when it comes to planning activities in-and-around Cape Agulhas. From t...

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Enhancing the visitor experience with tourism monitors.

Improving the safety of tourists and enhancing their experience of the Cape Town CBD is at the heart of a new programme recently introduced by the National Department of Tourism (NDT) in collaboration with the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

The Tourism Monitor Programme, which also provides work opportunities to first-time job seekers, is part of a longterm strategy by national government to enhance prime tourism destinations in the country. The programme, launched in November in Cape Town, sees Tourism Monitors being deployed throughout the country to several areas and tourist attractions. Their tasks include interacting with tourists and patrolling identified tourist hotspots to ensure they are safe, and reporting any incidents to relevant enforcement agencies.

In downtown Cape Town, 16 Tourism Monitors have been allocated for a year. They are being deployed and managed by the CCID’s Safety & Security department to focus specifically on educating tourists about the dangers of ATM fraud and promoting the CBD’s tourist attractions. Applauding the initiative, CCID manager of Safety & Security, Muneeb “Mo” Hendricks , says their presence “will go a long way in boosting the CCID’s efforts and those of its partners to help ensure that both locals and visitors have peace of mind while enjoying themselves in the CBD during the festive season and beyond”.

The monitors, who are highly visible in their bright orange outfits, join the CCID’s other student ambassadors from the Chrysalis Academy who are deployed during the day in the Company’s Garden and at certain hotspot ATMs throughout the City Centre to prevent ATM fraud.

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Minister of South African Tourism and Private Sector Stakeholders Tourism Safety Action Plan

On 29 May 2023, I met with various stakeholders including MECs for Tourism, the South African Police Service, the private sector including the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) and the National Prosecuting Authority, to discuss tourism safety and actions that government in partnership with the private sector will take to enhance tourism safety.

Safety is one of the major issues affecting the tourism sector and as partners, the government and the private sector agreed tourism safety is a priority that we need to address collectively so that we can grow the sector and remove any obstacles standing in the way of that objective.

Tourism is not only an economic activity but an essential vehicle that promotes a mutual understanding between a tourist and host community. Tourism is recognised for its immense potential and its significant contribution to the economy. 

An enhanced visitor experience takes into consideration the enhancement of local destinations sites through cleanliness, safety and security, access to information, as well as provision of quality services and an authentic experience.

Crime is a matter which affects tourism in many parts of the world and this has been echoed by several tourism ministers which I have engaged with from all over the world in recent weeks.

South Africa is no different and across the world, countries are grappling with these issues with instability and wars in some countries.

In my engagements with the private sector, we agreed that we need to confront safety and security issues head-on and implement actions to arrest the problem. We can only do so by working together.

I am pleased that after a detailed discussion today, we can report that the Department of Tourism, provincial departments, tourism associations and the private stakeholders have agreed that we will address Tourism Safety issues in partnership with one another.

Apart from the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), which represents several major tourist associations, stakeholders at today’s Tourism Safety Dialogue included FEDHASA, BARSA, SATOVITO and many other role players in the tourism sector.

We discussed the risks related to tourism and the strategies and actions that need to be implemented to improve tourism safety as agreed to in the 2018 Tourism Safety Strategy.

This strategy has, however, not been properly implemented due to the COVID 19 pandemic. But I am determined that together with our partners that we now need to address tourist safety with clear actions and timelines.

NATIONAL TOURISM SAFETY FORUM

In 2018, which was in the 5 th administration, there was an agreement, established in all nine provinces, to set up the National Tourism Safety Forum. We are now in the 6 th administration since 2019 and so the priorities of government must now be implemented.

The National Tourism Safety Forum’s (NTSF) responsibility is the co-ordination and integration of safety response mechanisms for tourists in distress. 

Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined in the Terms of Reference.

THE NATIONAL TOURISM SAFETY STRATEGY

The objectives of the strategy are among others to:

• Set out the short, medium and long-term tourism safety priorities.
• Empower all spheres of government, tourism stakeholders, business/ private sector, tourism organisations and other relevant stakeholders to establish and coordinate a partnership-based approach to tourism safety and incident management initiatives;
• Set out roles and responsibilities of each sphere of government and other relevant stakeholders on the coordination of tourism safety programmes and ensure mutual support and cooperation between all stakeholders.

The strategy is divided into 3 key areas each with identified initiatives that are being implemented at both provincial and national level.

• Proactive Measures
• Responsive Measures  
• Aftercare Measures

The Key Objectives of the Action Plan are to:

• Increase visibility at identified tourist attractions and sites;
• Train Tourism Monitors to ensure that they are safe when executing duties; and
• Facilitate integrated implementation and support of safety programmes.

Key Focus Areas:

• Management, training and development of Tourism Monitors; institutionalisation of Tourist Safety;
• Case Management System (CMS),
• Database of crimes against tourists;
• Facilitation of cases relating to international tourist/s;
• Establishment of the Provincial Tourism Safety Forums;
• Call up for Police Reservists and integrated Tourism Safety Awareness campaigns/ sessions.

IMPLEMENTATION

Management, Training and development of the Tourism Monitors

The Tourism Monitors Programme (TMP) is part of the broader government intervention that involves training, mentorship and deployment of unemployed youth in identified tourism attractions and sites. 

The key objectives are: enhancing tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.

The key performance areas of the appointed Tourism Monitors (TMs) include but not limited to: patrolling within the identified attractions and site/ areas, raising tourism awareness and provide information to tourists and report any crime incidents to SAPS and other relevant enforcement agencies.

SAPS Learning and Development Programme: This will be offered to Tourism Monitors and will include:

• Legal Framework (Mandate; Human Rights; Specific relevant crimes);
• Reporting (Duties of first responder (gathering information; basic interviewing skills; incident reporting and statement making);
• Crime Prevention (Crime prevention concepts (e.g.) Security, Risk, Vulnerability; Crime displacement; Guarding; Patrols and Access control;

Facilitation of cases relating to international tourist/s:

The department has been in engagements with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) over the past two years to obtain guidance on ways to speed up cases involving international tourist given their limited time in the country once a crime has been committed.

At a workshop held in August 2022, the NPA informed the department that the President has accented to the legislation on the utilisation of the use of audio and visual link to present evidence in court.

This would entail the possibility of instituting Virtual Court proceedings, which would allow tourists to be part of the proceedings even if they had left the country before the conclusion of a case, and alternatively tourists could connect through audio-visual link at the South African Missions in their countries of origin.

Today, we have heard from the NPA today that amendments have, since, been made to the Criminal Procedure Act.

The Act has been amended to include Section 51 C, which incorporates a provision for witnesses to testify virtually. This section came into effect on 5 August 2022.

Establishment of the Provincial Tourism Safety Forums:

To date all the nine (9) provinces have safety forums or provincial structures where various stakeholders engage on issues related to tourist safety.

Call up for Police Reservists

• In 2019, Department of Tourism together with SAPS funded the call-up for Police Reservist for Mpumalanga Province over the festive season
• Post the 2019 call-up, the department together with SAPS national agreed that the matter and budgeting of the call-up for police reservists should be the responsibility of provinces.
• In the past year, the Department has shared information with provinces on guidelines for the call-up for Police Reservists;
• Identification and submission of hotspots by provinces;
• number of reservists required, and
• intended duration of deployment.

Tourism Safety Awareness campaigns/ sessions

The Department of Tourism has been conducting safety awareness sessions for over the past two financial years. 

These sessions are meant to create awareness of the importance of tourism and tourists visiting the destination. 

The sessions are being conducted jointly with the various safety and security structures.  Some of the external stakeholders involved in these sessions are: Provincial Tourism Departments/ Entities and Security structures like Cross Border Road Transport Agency (CBRTA); Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA); South African Police Services, Department of Home Affairs (DHA) etc. 

The Tourism Monitors closer to the identified campaign sites are also brought in to be part of the awareness sessions.

INTERVENTIONS AND UPDATES

TOURISM MONITORS

Part of the National Safety Strategy is the deployment of Tourism Monitors by the Department of Tourism.

We are reviewing the training curriculum for tourism monitors, where they are recruited from and where they are deployed to in terms of identified hotspots and other medium to high crime areas.

The initial 2023/24 financial year Departmental budget is R174.5 million, to train 1 845 Tourism Monitors across the country. 

I have however asked the department to increase the number of Tourism Monitors we deploy to 2 215 Tourism Monitors.

Today, I made a call on the various MECs to also make part of their EPWP budget available to fund the training of more Tourism Monitors.

The Tourism Monitors will be deployed to all provinces at top tourist attractions and national parks, especially high and medium risk areas.

We have consulted the private sector for their inputs into the training of the Tourism Monitors.

In the previous financial year, the Department trained more than 2 500 monitors in all provinces.  The Tourism Monitors programme has come to an end and therefore there are no tourism monitors out there at the moment.

Since this programme derives its funding from the EPWP allocations, and knowing that all provinces also receive EPWP allocations, I appeal to the provinces to allocate some of the funding to the Tourism Monitors programme.

We have identified, in consultation with the private sector, 59 hotspots across the country. The deployment of Tourism Monitors will be prioritised to service these sites.

We must also work hand in hand with communities in tourist attraction areas for them to take ownership of their communities and understand the value and need to protect the tourist spaces around them. Communities must understand and be brought on board to help grow tourism in their areas.

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE

There is also a Memorandum of Understanding in place between the Department of Tourism and the South African Police Service that was signed in 2019 to work on various measures to enhance tourism safety.

TECHNOLOGY:

Another key intervention in Tourism Safety Strategy is the use of technology and specifically apps that can improve visitor safety and support.

For example, an app tourists can download with all safety information and request specific types of help with the click of a button.

There are a number of APPs in the market that all are geared towards tourist safety. 

The Department has been working with SAPS and has developed tourist safety tips which have a QR-code that allows tourists to scan the tips and have them electronically.  The safety tips have also been incorporated into the MY-SAPS APP for easy access.  SAPS indicated that they intend enhancing the features of its APP and are also looking at ways of creating more awareness about the APP.

It is the intention of the private sector to rollout a safety app called SECURA, which is solely dedicated to tourist safety nationally.

The app integrates affordable emergency medical responses, breakdowns and crime-related incident assistance.

It also includes SECURA’s panic button – which is accessible via mobile phone or in the form of a panic button on the app which connects travellers and tourism stakeholders to hundreds of emergency responders when every second counts.

These responders are ready and equipped to assist in any emergency situation.

The panic button on the app connects travellers and tourism stakeholders to over 200 private security companies and over 60 Emergency Medical Service providers.

How it Works

• User activates Panic Button
• Nearby Response providers notified and accept call out
• Directed by Live GPS location
• Incident Centre calls user to check emergency status and provide remote support
• Traveller safety secured and Aftercare services initiated

Responders will arrive at the scene and stabilise the situation. In the case of EMS, they will transport the patient to the nearest most appropriate medical facility.

The private sector has defined timelines and are able to action the following: establish a Tourism Operations Centre under TBSCA to guide and manage implementation plan and deploy the SECURA Traveller technology to support Tourism Monitors and safety objectives from 1 July 2023.

The App is already in use and being marketed via SATSA at R49 per download / coupon valid for 30days – primarily to the Inbound Operators so that they may embed into their ticket sales.

The private sector is in the process of securing funds and they are confident of deployment by July.

Michael Tollman from the Tourism Business Council of South Africa said: “We intend to complete today’s conference with an agreed plan which will be implemented within the next 90 days.”

The plan will not only reduce risks to tourism safety and security, but it  will also ensure that many more tourists return home from their visit to South Africa with a positive view to share with their friends, family and on social media.

In this way and with support from the National Department of Tourism, SA Tourism and the private sector we will have opportunities that we currently do not  have in our toolbox  to better  sell South Africa and to improve and change perceptions of South Africa regarding tourism safety and security.

We do not expect perceptions to change overnight, but we are confident that if we can agree to the plan and measures being proposed today and we successfully implement them in the next three months, that we will see perceptions change over time and we will see great confidence and comfort for our tourists to travel in South Africa and to visit South Africa”.

TBCSA will work hand-in-hand with the Department of Tourism in strengthening the Tourism Monitors programme and bring resources together for this initiative.

Safety is a key concern for all of us and we need to confront these problems.  

I made it clear to the Forum that I am looking for collaboration and ideas. More importantly, we need practical solutions. It’s the “HOW” that is important for me.

We need to, collectively, partner up to bolster tourism, with the common goal of giving visitors the best possible experience in this beautiful country of ours.

The road ahead is simple: we need to act and we need to act now.

I am clear that the mandate of SAPS to ensure the safety of all South Africans including our visitors but we can do more as partners within our ambit.

I share the concerns and need for urgency with the private sector. So this is my plea – let us work together to grow tourism and ensure the safety of both local and international tourists.

In everything we do, the best way for us to succeed is to take hands and work in partnership with the private sector.

Government has a role to play in terms of our respective mandates but the private sector are the business owners who know the sector the best. We need to find solutions together and we need to implement the solutions together.

I want to thank all representatives from government, the private sector and tourism associations for being part of the Tourism Safety Forum today and for your commitments and will to tackle this issue together.

We will continue meeting on a regular basis to refine the plans and report back on the commitments. We will also continue to brief the media and the public on the various safety measures in the coming weeks and months.

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First of over 2 300 tourism monitors deployed

Yesterday (Tuesday, December 12) as part of the National Tourism Safety Strategy , the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille , deployed the first tourism monitors in Hazyview, Mpumalanga.

This was launched in conjunction with the Deputy Tourism Minister, Fish Mahlalela , Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela , the CEO of the Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Agency, Mduduzi Vilikazi and other provincial tourism stakeholders.

The Department of Tourism budgeted R174,5 million to train more than 2 300 tourism safety monitors in South Africa during this financial year.

The Tourism Monitors Programme is part of the broader tourism safety measures identified in the National Tourism Safety Strategy. The strategy contains measures identified by partners who form the National Tourism Safety Forum, which comprises all three spheres of government, the South African Police Service, the National Prosecuting Authority and the private sector as represented by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa as well as local and provincial tourism authorities and agencies.

The key objectives of the programme include: enhancing tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.

The tourism monitors are placed in key attractions/sites with high volumes of tourists or in areas posing a high potential risk to tourists.

The key performance areas of the appointed tourism monitors include:

• Patrolling within the identified attractions and sites/areas.

 • Raising tourism awareness and providing information to tourists about attractions and the country.

• Reporting any crime incidents to SAPS and other relevant enforcement agencies.

 • Assisting in tourist victim support.

“We have worked closely with the Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Authority on finalising the appointment and deployment of tourism monitors who will be deployed in various areas, including the Graskop/Blyde River area and Hazyview,” said De Lille. 

220 monitors in Mpumalanga

In total, 220 tourism monitors will be deployed in Mpumalanga, including in the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality: Lowveld View, God's Window, Pinnacle, Berlin Falls, Mac Falls, Sabie Town, Graskop Town, Pilgrim’s Rest, Gorge Lift and Lydenburg.

In the Nkomazi Municipality: Lebombo Border Post and Jeppe's Reef Border Post. In Mbombela: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport as well as sites in the Hazyview, Albert Luthuli, Msukalingwe and Emakhazeni Municipalities.

The placement of Tourism Monitors in the remainder of the provinces will take place over the coming weeks.

The 2 305 tourism monitors will be deployed as follows:

Eastern Cape 150

Free State 150

Western Cape 250

Gauteng 100

Limpopo 100

KwaZulu Natal 200

Mpumalanga 220

North West 100

Northern Cape 70

iSimangaliso Wetland Park 200

Ezemvelo Nature Reserve 150

SANBI Gardens 130

Acsa airports 135

SANParks 350

Third feedback session

Yesterday, the National Tourism Safety Forum held its third meeting for the year, where all partners provided updates on measures to enhance tourism safety for all visitors.

“South Africa is a popular destination to local and international travellers, however crime is an unfortunate reality affecting tourists. While it is the mandate of the police to provide safety and security services, the Department of Tourism, all three spheres of government and the private sector have come together to do our part with additional measures to enhance tourist safety,” highlighted De Lille.

“As part of the National Tourism Safety Strategy, the Department of Tourism has a Memorandum of Understanding with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and we have been implementing a number of initiatives.”

Some of the initiatives implemented are:

• Joint safety awareness sessions;
• SAPS assisting the department with the vetting of tourism monitors;
• SAPS has developed a coding system that will be provided to all police stations to capture information related to crimes against tourists. The system will assist in providing a clear profile of the types of crimes against tourists;
• SAPS has also developed a Safety Learning and Development Programme for the tourism monitors.

Victim Support Programme

Another aspect of the National Tourism Safety Strategy is the Victim Support Programme (VSP) running in some provinces to support victims of crime.

The Department held a Victim Support Programme (VSP) workshop earlier this year to create a Standard Operation Procedure/‘How-to Guide’ for the establishment of the VSP in other provinces.

The Standard Operating Procedure for the VSP been finalised and will be shared with all provinces to ensure that the remaining provinces start the process to establish their own VSP.

“We are well aware that there have been several attacks on tourists in various areas in recent weeks and months but we are determined to work together with all stakeholders to enhance tourism safety measures,” emphasised De Lille.

“Working with all three spheres of government, the South African Police Service, Provincial Tourism and Law Enforcement Authorities, the private sector and communities, we will ensure that our beautiful country, with all its magnificent sites and people, is safe for domestic and international tourists to explore.”

Diplomatic Corps engagement

As part of the National Tourism Safety work, in mid-November De Lille also held a Tourism Safety engagement with members of the Diplomatic Corps.

The session was attended by 115 participants, including Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Attachés, and the embassy officials who included the locally recruited personnel.

“The purpose of the session was, amongst others, to share South Africa’s programmes, interventions and strategies towards tourist safety.

“The session provided prerequisite information intending to enable the Diplomatic Community to appreciate South Africa’s efforts towards tourist safety and to further transmit the information to their citizens in countries of origin who are planning to visit South Africa in the near future,” concluded De Lille.

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Tourism safety a top priority

The National Tourism Safety Strategy is aimed at fostering a public-private sector partnership to address issues of tourism safety in a more coordinated manner.

“The measures aim to provide an enhanced visitor experience and in the long-term, change perceptions of South Africa as an unsafe destination,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said on Tuesday.

She was addressing members of the Diplomatic Corps in Pretoria on tourism safety issues.

De Lille explained that the National Tourism Safety Strategy is centered on three key themes which include proactive measures, responsive measures and aftercare programmes.

“It is about putting in place mechanisms to ensure that tourists, both domestic and international, feel safe even before arriving at the destination,” she said, adding that the mechanisms seek to ensure quick and effective turnaround time to attend to tourists in distress should an incident of crime occur. 

“This is about stakeholder coordination and communication in terms of messaging and protocols to follow. We have since set up a committee led by the private sector under Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) to develop clear Crisis Management Communications Plan and Protocols. 

“This will ensure that there are clear protocols in place during an incident and that the messaging is same,” de Lille said.

The department has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South African Police Services (SAPS) on collaboration towards the prevention, investigation and combating of crimes impacting on the tourism industry and the safety and well-being of tourists.

“The MoU Action Plan is being implemented through the Tourism Safety Technical Committee comprising of the Department of Tourism and SAPS. The MoU is currently undergoing revision to ensure that other initiatives being implemented with private sector on safety and security are considered and strengthened. 

“The action plan incorporates both initiatives identified by the Department and by the South African Police Services and to be handled at a bilateral level,” the Minister said.

The Tourism Monitors Programme (TMP) is part of the broader government intervention that involves training, mentorship and deployment of unemployed youth in identified tourism attractions and sites. 

“Government has invested R174 Million for the deployment of Tourism Monitors in this financial year. The key objectives of the programme include: enhancing tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.”

The Minister said the department will deploy 2 300 Tourism Monitors nationally in entities managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Gardens, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Ezemvelo Nature Reserve, in the national parks managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks), and at airports managed by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). – SAnews.gov.za

Minister Patricia de Lille gives progress on Tourism Safety Measures by government and the private sector

Progress on Tourism Safety Measures by government and the private sector

Following our second National Tourism Safety Forum held today, we are updating the media on progress on tourism safety measures.

The National Tourism Safety Forum includes all Tourism MECs, the South African Police, the National Prosecuting Authority, the Department of Tourism, the Department of Transport, the Tourism Business Council of South Africa and its members, the South African Tourism Services Association, Airports Company South Africa, Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (FEDHASA), the South African Township and Village Tourism Organisation (SATOVITO) and other tourism sector bodies met today.

The Safety Forum aims to improve the visitor experience within South Africa.

South Africa receives millions of tourists per year, and the vast majority of visitors return home without any issues and a memorable experience of our beautiful country.

Our arrival numbers for 2023 are looking good, demonstrating that South Africa is still a favourable tourist destination and we are eager to welcome more tourists as we head into the busy summer season.

South Africa’s tourism sector continues to exhibit strong recovery with the first half of 2023 recording more than 4 million tourist arrivals, according to the latest data from Statistics South Africa.

This is a significant increase from the 2,3 million tourist arrivals between January and June 2022.

The total number of tourist arrivals to South Africa between January and June 2023 showed a sizable 78.2% surge in the first half of 2023 when compared to the same period in 2022.

The Africa region continues to bring the largest share of tourist arrivals to the country with more than 3 million arrivals from the rest of the African continent in the first six months of 2023.

This is a 79.9% increase when compared to the same period last year when South Africa welcomed 1.7million visitors from Africa. 

This is a testament to the marketing efforts that we have implemented to attract tourists from this region.  Africa remains a key source market for us, and we are committed to collaborating as a tourism sector to make sure we welcome visitors from this region and that we cater for their needs and preferences.

Beyond the African continent, South Africa has welcomed more visitors from other regions too.  

The Asia region almost doubled its figures with a 99.5% growth compared to 2022.

This year, Europe, the largest source of visitors outside Africa, also experienced solid growth of 66,8.1%, when compared to the same period in 2022.

North America, Central & South America, and the Middle East also demonstrated strong growth trends with rates of 70.6%, 74.4%, and 75.8% respectively.

These robust figures showcase South Africa’s charm and attractiveness as well as the work that we are doing in marketing South Africa as a tourist destination of choice.

We are here to update the media and public today to say that we are gearing up for the busy summer season and we are ready to welcome tourists.

We will be launching the Summer Campaign in two weeks’ time in the Eastern Cape.

Today was our second meeting of the National Tourism Safety Forum with the previous meeting held in May where all representatives agreed on clear actions to address tourism safety.

At the last National Safety Forum meeting in Sandton on 29 May 2023, we agreed to collectively confront these problems.

While the latest statistics from StatsSA reveal an upward trend in tourist arrivals, issues of safety are an obstacle in converting would-be tourists to visit our country.

The National Tourism Safety Forum’s (NTSF) responsibility is the co-ordination and integration of safety response mechanisms for tourists in distress. 

The Key Objectives of the Tourism Action Plan are to:

• Increase visibility at identified tourist attractions and sites;
• Train Tourism Monitors to ensure that they are safe when executing duties; and
• Facilitate integrated implementation and support of safety programmes.

As I said after the previous National Tourism Safety Forum meeting, crime is a matter which affects tourism in many parts of the world.

This has been echoed by several tourism ministers from all over the world. South Africa is no different and across the world, countries are grappling with these issues with instability and wars in some countries.

While it is the mandate of the SAPS to keep our citizens and visitors safe, we all have a role to play. A lot of progress has been made since we last met.

Progress so far tourism monitors

Part of the National Safety Strategy is the deployment of Tourism Monitors by the Department of Tourism.

We have reviewed the training curriculum for tourism monitors.

The Departmental budget is R174.5 million, to train more than 2 200 Tourism Monitors across the country for this financial year.

The Tourism Monitors will be deployed to all provinces at top tourist attractions and national parks.

The key objectives to enhance tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.

The key responsibilities of the appointed Tourism Monitors include patrolling within the identified attractions and site/ areas, raising tourism awareness and provide information to tourists and report any crime incidents to SAPS and other relevant enforcement agencies.

The tender has gone out for the training of more than 2 200 Tourism Monitors.

These young people will be equipped with an NQF 3 certification and receive a further training from the South African Police Service.

The Tourism Monitors will be deployed towards end of October to early November 2023, just in time for the summer tourist season.

Other updates:

The Department of Tourism also now has a representative on the Stability Priority Committee at NatJoints.

In terms of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the NPA informed the Safety Forum that the President has accented to the legislation on the use of the use of audio and visual link to present evidence in court.

This would entail the possibility of instituting Virtual Court proceedings, which would allow tourists to be part of the proceedings even if they had left the country before the conclusion of a case, and alternatively tourists could connect through audio-visual link at the South African Missions in their countries of origin.

Amendments have been made to the Criminal Procedure Act. The Act has been amended to include Section 51 C, which incorporates a provision for witnesses to testify virtually. This section came into effect on 5 August 2022.

Technology to enhance tourism safety

We also received an update from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on the C-More tracking device and how best this technology can be incorporated into the Secura app that has been set up by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa.

Through the use of technology. We are enhancing the tourist experience by offering technology and tourism monitors that assist tourists in various attractions as well as on-demand requests through an app.

The Secura app is now up and running and we are launching the operations centre in Sandton on Thursday.

The Secura App is already being used by tourists and aims to enhance the visitor experience and assist in many ways including roadside assistance and directing those who are lost.

This initiative is being led by the private sector – the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA).

The app integrates affordable emergency medical responses, breakdowns and crime-related incident assistance.

The Secura App connects travellers and tourism stakeholders to hundreds of emergency service providers when every second counts.

The service providers are ready and equipped to assist in any situation.

Since our last update to the media on this at the end of May, TBCSA has established a Tourism Operations Centre to guide and manage the SECURA Traveller technology to support the Tourism Monitors.

There are a number of apps in the market that all are geared towards tourist safety. 

The Department of Tourism has also been working with SAPS and has developed tourist safety tips which have a QR-code that allows tourists to scan the tips and have them electronically. 

The safety tips have also been incorporated into the MY-SAPS APP for easy access.  SAPS indicated that they intend enhancing the features of its APP and are also looking at ways of creating more awareness about the APP.

We are also doing Tourism Awareness Campaigns in communities across the country. The teams will be in the Eastern Cape for this initiative later this week.

Communities must understand the value of tourism and be brought on board to help grow the tangible benefits of tourism in their areas.

I will also be meeting with the diplomatic community in the coming weeks to share our work to enhance safety measures so that they can share this with their countries.

This is why effective communication is so important. Today, we also agreed on a communication strategy and Standard Operating Procedure and single response from the sector when tourists fall victim to crime.

The National Tourism Safety Forum will meet again later this year and we look forward to continuing our partnership with all stakeholders and the private sector to enhance tourism safety measures and working with all stakeholders to ensure a safer visitor experience.

We will continue meeting on a regular basis to refine the plans and report back on the commitments.

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Tourism monitors to keep townships safe

The department of tourism is boosting efforts to ensure that tourists visiting the country don’t worry about safety..

Tourism Minister Tokozile Xasa launched the pilot programme in Gauteng recently. The programme places youth aged 18-35 in tourism hubs like Vilakazi Street in Orlando, Soweto, where they will ensure the safety of tourists.

The programme, which further aims to revive the township tourism economy, will also be rolled out to other provinces.

One of the East Rand Monitors, Ruben Tsime said the programme will be very beneficial to him.

“Before I was selected, I was volunteering but it was not working out, now I am employed because of this programme. The programme runs for three years and during that time we will get skills training.”

The Department of Tourism said the initiative is part of its effort to fulfil the National Development Plan mandate which identified the tourism sector as a key to growing the economy.  A series of crime incidents around tourism hotspots and some directed at tourists threatened the department’s potential to reach its target of increasing tourists to Gauteng by five million.

Minister Xasa expressed the importance of increasing visibility around the hotspots to ensure that their targets are met, adding that South African Tourism must filter information to the man on the street.

The monitors will be linked to law enforcement agencies to allow seamless flow of information and engagement.

“The aim of the monitors is to create access to information, ensure safety in destinations while giving tourists quality services and experiences,” Minister Xasa said.

Recruiting of monitors

Recruitment for the monitors started in June 2017. The criteria included youth with matric, good communication skills, ability to speak English and two African Languages, prepared to work shifts; and with no criminal record.

All recruited Tourism Monitors will be placed mostly in areas in which they reside. The placement areas are as follows:

• Sedibeng – 35 monitors;
• Johannesburg area (Vilakazi Street, Carlton Centre, Park Station and Red Bus) – 60 monitors and an additional 40 monitors which will be paid for by Johannesburg;
• Ekurhuleni – 35 monitors of which 10 will be place at the OR Tambo International Airport;
• Tshwane – 35 monitors; and
• West Rand – 35 monitors.

While monitors will act as ambassadors, the Minister urged that they assist in developing a database of upcoming Small Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMMEs) Businesses in their areas of placement.

Monitors will also need to identify links in the value chain that may need improvement such as points for transportation in between the various attractions and traffic congestion points.

Domestic Tourists

The department said while it is targeting four million international tourists, it also wants to increase domestic tourism by one million in Gauteng.

“We all do tourism in very different ways, many people see it as an experience that is about travelling to foreign places but you can’t experience things elsewhere if you don’t start at home. We are encouraging people to start at home,” the department’s Deputy Director General Shamilla Chettiar said.

Developing the domestic tourism is seen as a way to address challenges such as seasonality, where there are dips in tourist numbers.

Tourism and the economy

Tourism is a significant and critical sector in South Africa’s economy as it contributes to trade, sustains 700 000 direct jobs and is performing stronger than the other growth sectors. Despite the economic slow-down the country had recorded its 7th year of sustained growth in tourism.

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Tourism monitors deployed to enhance tourism safety ahead of peak summer holiday period

M M EDIA STATEMENT

DATE: 12 DECEMBER

TOURISM MONITORS DEPLOYED TO ENHANCE TOURISM SAFETY AHEAD OF PEAK SUMMER HOLIDAY PERIOD

As part of the National Tourism Safety Strategy, today, together with the Deputy Minister, Fish Mahlalela, the Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, the CEO of the Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Agency, Mr Mduduzi Vilikazi and other tourism stakeholders, we launched and deployed the first group of Tourism Monitors in Hazyview in Mpumalanga.

The Tourism Monitors Programme is an initiative by the Department of Tourism to supplement safety and security measures by the South African Police Service to enhance tourism safety.

The deployment of the Tourism Monitors is part of the broader tourism safety measures identified in the National Tourism Safety Strategy.

The Strategy contains measures identified by partners who form the National Tourism Safety Forum which comprises all three spheres of government, the South African Police Service, the National Prosecuting Authority and the private sector as represented by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) as well as local and provincial tourism authorities and agencies.

Today, the National Tourism Safety Forum also held its third meeting for the year where all partners provided updates on measures to enhance tourism safety for all visitors.

South Africa is a popular destination to local and international travellers, however, crime is an unfortunate reality that has affected tourists. While it is the mandate of the police to provide safety and security services, the Department of Tourism, all three spheres of government and the private sector have come together to do our part with additional measures to enhance tourist safety.

The safety of all tourists is paramount and we are determined to do all we can to ensure that all tourists have a safe and memorable experience in South Africa.

As part of the National Tourism Safety Strategy, the Department of Tourism has a Memorandum of Understanding with SAPS and we have been implementing a number of initiatives. Some of the initiatives implemented are:

• Joint safety awareness sessions;
• SAPS assisting the department with the vetting of Tourism Monitors;
• SAPS has developed a coding system that will be provided to all police stations to use in the capturing of information related to crimes against tourists. The system will assist in providing a clear profile of the types of crimes against tourists;
• SAPS has also developed a Safety Learning and Development Programmed for the Tourism Monitors.

Earlier this year, the private sector launched the Secura Traveller tourism safety app and operations center to assist tourists with a range of services they may need in the event of any incident. The app links tourists to more than 200 service providers including private security companies, medical and translation services.

One of the measures to enhance tourist safety by the National Department of Tourism is the Tourism Monitors programme, which is also a job creation project, where Tourism Monitors are trained to help tourists with any assistance they may need.

The Department has set aside R174.5million from this year’s budget to deploy just over 2 300 Tourism Monitors at key tourist attractions across the country.

The Tourism Monitors will be deployed at strategic ports of entry, national parks and other attractions across the country to assist with tourism and safety related information and matters.

The deployment of 2300 Tourism Monitors in all nine provinces, in entities managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) Gardens, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Ezemvelo Nature Reserve, in the national parks managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks), and at airports managed by Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).

The Tourism Monitors Programme forms part of the wider National Tourism Safety Strategy’s first key pillar, which is Proactive measures.

This pillar focuses on addressing issues that can minimise the potential of incidents that adversely impact on tourist safety. It is about putting in place mechanisms to ensure that tourists, both domestic and international, feel safe even before arriving at the destination.

The Tourism Monitors Programme is part of the broader government intervention that involves training, mentorship and deployment of unemployed youth in identified tourism attractions and sites.

The key objectives of the programme include: enhancing tourism safety awareness at key tourism attractions and sites, upskilling of unemployed youth and reducing tourist vulnerabilities.

The Tourism Monitors are placed in key attractions/sites with high volumes of tourists or in areas posing a high potential risk to tourists.

The key performance areas of the appointed Tourism Monitors include:

• Patrolling within the identified attractions and sites/ areas.
• Raise tourism awareness and provide information to tourists about attractions and the country.
• Report any crime incidents to SAPS and other relevant enforcement agencies.
• Assist in tourist victim support. Notably, this province – along with the Western Cape – have successful aftercare services in the form of Victim Support Programmes

The focus of the training for Tourism Monitors will be on an accredited General Security Practices NQF 3: (National Certificate on Safety and Security).

The SAPS has also developed a Learning and Development programme through its Human Resource Development unit.

The Learning Programme will cover: Crowd Management, Reporting - Duties of first responder; gathering information; basic interviewing skills; incident reporting and statement making), Crime Prevention, Guarding and Patrols.

The Tourism Monitors will be equipped with the MySAPS app which includes a tourist safety guide and the Secura Traveller app which has been set up by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa, which will give them access to a host of private security companies and health institutions at a click of a button to allow them to assist tourists in need.

We encourage tourists to download the app too, as it brings a host of emergency and other service providers to their fingertips.

Today we deployed the first batch of just over 100 young men and women, who will assist in enhancing our tourists’ visitor experience and ensure that South Africa remains a destination of choice this festive season and beyond.

We have worked closely with the Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Authority on finalising the appointment and deployment of the 100 Tourism Monitors who will be deployed in various areas including the Graskop/Blyde River area and Hazyview. In total, 220 Tourism Monitors will be deployed here in Mpumalanga.

Some of the areas the Tourism Monitors will be placed in, in Mpumalanga includes: in the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality: Lowveld View, God's Window, Pinnacle, Berlin Falls, Mac Falls, Sabie Town, Graskop Town, Pilgrims Rest, Gorge Lift and Lydenburg.

In the Nkomazi Municipality: Lebombo Border Post and Jeppe's Reef Border Post.

In Mbombela: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport as well as sites in the Hazyview, Albert Luthuli, Msukalingwe and Emakhazeni Municipalities

The placement of Tourism Monitors in the remainder of the provinces will take place in the coming weeks. They will all be clearly identifiable by their uniforms.

The 2 305 Tourism Monitors will be deployed as follows:

As part of the National Tourism Safety work, in mid-November, I also held a Tourism Safety engagement with members of the Diplomatic Corps. The session was attended by 115 participants including Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Attachés’ as well as the embassy officials who included the locally recruited personnel.

The purpose of the session was to amongst others share South Africa’s programmes, interventions and strategies towards tourist safety. The session provided prerequisite information with a view to enable the Diplomatic Community to appreciate South Africa’s efforts towards tourist safety and to further transmit the information to their citizens in countries of origin who are planning to visit South Africa in the near future.

Another aspect of the National Tourism Safety Strategy is the Victim Support Programme (VSP) running in some provinces to support victims of crime.

The Department held a Victim Support Programme (VSP) workshop earlier this year to create a Standard Operation Procedure/ “How-to Guide” for the establishment of the VSP in other provinces.

The Standard Operating Procedure for the VSP been finalised and will be shared with all provinces to ensure that the remaining provinces start the process to establish their own VSP.

We are well aware that there have been several attacks on tourists in various areas in recent weeks and months but we are determined to work together with all stakeholders to enhance tourism safety measures.

Together with all three spheres of government, the South African Police Service, Provincial Tourism and Law Enforcement Authorities, the private sector and communities, we will ensure that our beautiful country, with all its magnificent sites and people, is safe for domestic and international tourists to explore.

As we head into our peak summer tourism period, we also call on all South Africans to showcase our warm and friendly South African hospitality so that we remain a top tourist destination that will keep tourists coming back. The success and growth of the tourism sector will ensure that we grow our economy and create more much-needed jobs for our people.

For Media Enquiries: Zara Nicholson

Media Liaison Officer

Cell: +27 (0) 79 416 5996

Email: [email protected]

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