Question NW274 to the Minister of Tourism
15 March 2017 - NW274
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) are the full details of the Tourism Oceans Phakisa initiative and (b) progress have been made on the recommendations of the Marine Tourism Lab to date?
Reply:
A. In 2014, South Africa launched Operation Phakisa which focuses on unlocking the economic potential of the country’s oceans. Initially there were four focus areas selected as new growth areas in the ocean economy, with the objective of growing them and deriving value for the country. These were:
- marine transport and manufacturing activities, such as coastal shipping, trans-shipment, boat building, repair and refurbishment;
- offshore oil and gas exploration;
- aquaculture; and
- marine protection services and ocean governance.
During an oceans economy review workshop in 2015, two focus areas were added namely; Coastal and Marine Tourism(CMT) and Small Harbours.
B. The Coastal and Marine Tourism Lab[1] convened on a full-time basis from 11 April to 23 May 2016 with the purpose of identifying specific initiatives to accelerate growth, development and transformation in the sector. The Lab supported the implementation of the Oceans Economy Phakisa, thereby contributing to the President’s 9 Point Plan to accelerate job-creation and inclusive growth. The Lab’s work was guided by six principles namely; economic sustainability, transformation, environmental integrity, community empowerment, responsible tourism, and a community-centred approach. Detailed plans outlining the specific projects in each of these priority initiatives are presently being finalised and will be sent to Cabinet for approval.
[An intense session (five weeks) where all stakeholders come together to identify challenges to economic growth and provide initiatives to address those challenges] ↑