Question NW1594 to the Minister of Tourism
08 June 2021 - NW1594
Gumbi, Mr HS to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1)What was the purpose of the Ministerial cook off with Mr Somizi Mhlongo on 17 May 2021 ahead of the Budget Vote of her department; (2) whether any State resources were used to host the event; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) what amount did the event cost, (b) from what budget were the funds obtained and (c) on what statutory grounds did she rely in this regard?
Reply:
(1) The Ministerial cock-off was part of the pre-Tourism Budget Vote departmental awareness activities, showcasing the work of the department in terms of the participation of graduate Chefs from its training programmes as well as promoting a culture of eating out particularly at township establishments.
(2) (a) The event cost was R150 000,00 (One hundred and fifty thousand rand) covering the venue and mobile kitchen hire, event staffing, safety and event compliance requirements, the stage, sound system, food supplies, exhibition setup, publicity including live-streaming of activities and sound system.
It is also important to state that there was no payment made to Mr Somizi Mhlongo and the department notes with concern the general public perception that he benefited from the event, which is not the case.
(b) The funds were obtained from the Chief Directorate: Communications from its 2021/22 MTEF allocation.
(c) The Tourism Act, No 3 of 2014 provides for development and promotion of tourism in South Africa.