Question NW3491 to the Minister of Tourism

Reply:

1.(a) Vacancies are in the following Programmes:

I have been informed that SAT currently has 26 vacancies as at 31 March 2023, this includes 3 at the Executive level.

Programme	Number of vacancies within the programme
PROGRAMME 1: CORPORATE SUPPORT	12
PROGRAMME 2: BUSINESS ENABLEMENT	1
PROGRAMME 3: LEISURE TOURISM MARKETING	11
PROGRAMME 4: BUSINESS EVENTS	1
PROGRAMME 5: TOURIST EXPERIENCE	1

(b) What is the impact of these vacancies?

The impact of the vacancies has been non-achievement of targets in some cases and overall staff fatigue and burnout due to capacity constraints.

In summary, filling the executive, management, and administrative positions is crucial for SA Tourism’s effective operation, strategic development, and the delivery of high-quality services to tourists. These positions provide leadership, guidance, and support that is essential for the success in promoting tourism, managing resources, and meeting our annual performance targets goals.

• Operational Efficiency: Vacancies in executive, senior management, and management positions can lead to a lack of strategic direction and effective decision-making. This can result in operational inefficiencies, misalignment of activities, and difficulties in achieving departmental goals.
• Resource Management: With management and executive vacancies, there may be challenges in resource allocation. This can affect budget management, staff allocation, and the ability to invest in initiatives that drive tourism growth.
• Leadership and Direction: The absence of leaders in executive and senior management roles can create uncertainty and reduce the ability to adapt to changing market conditions and emerging trends. This may lead to missed opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Customer Service and Quality: Management positions play a crucial role in ensuring high-quality visitor experiences. Vacancies in these roles may impact customer service, event planning, marketing, and other critical functions that directly affect tourists' satisfaction.
• Administrative Support: Administrative positions are essential for the smooth operation of the department. Vacancies in administrative roles can lead to delays in paperwork, coordination, and customer service, impacting the department's overall effectiveness.
• Employee Morale: Filling these positions can also boost employee morale. When roles are vacant for extended periods, it can create stress, and uncertainty, and lead to work overload among staff. Filling vacancies can improve staff morale, and motivation and ensure that all tasks are completed within the given deadlines.

(c) By when will these vacancies be filled

All the Executive roles have been advertised and it is anticipated that they will be filled within 4 months with the CEO appointment process targeted for the end of November 2023. Three Executive roles reporting to the Board are at the assessment and recommendation stage and three roles are at the shortlisting stage.

(2) with two cases of corruption reported in her department ( SAT) and still under investigation, what is the progress on the investigation of these cases?

The SA Tourism Board is working with management, in conjunction with the internal audit and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to ensure that all credible allegations are investigated in the interest of protecting accountability at the entity. Processes are underway in this regard and are conducted in a fair and unbiased manner.