Questions and Replies

Reply:

ISSUE	2020-2021	2021-2022	2022-2023
(a) Who has been the representative at each board	Ms Nomzamo Bhengu Chief Director: Strategy & Systems	Ms Nomzamo Bhengu Chief Director: Strategy & Systems	Ms Nomzamo Bhengu tenure ended 31 May 2022 Ms Nonkqubela Silulwane Chief Director: Research and Knowledge Management. Appointed from 26 October 2022
(b) What processes were followed to appoint the representative in each case	A standard approach has been to identify a suitable employee at Chief Director level who possess the necessary skills and expertise and submit a recommendation to the Minister for her consideration. Upon receiving concurrence from the Minister, details of the employee are processed to Cabinet for consideration and approval, in accordance with the procedure for Board appointments.
(c) What are the functions of the representative on each Board	The functions of the representative are in terms of the section 10 (1) and (2) of the Tourism Act, 2014 as well as the sections of the PFMA applicable to Boards of public entities. The member is, however, a non-voting member and may not be appointed as chairperson or deputy chairperson of the Board.
(d) How does the representative report to her department	The representative of the department has not, in the past, reported to the department on any matters of the Board. However, this will be reviewed when the Department develops the Service Level Agreement with the Board in the first quarter of the 2023/24 Financial year.

Reply:

(a) I was not appraised by the former Minister on when she was informed of the proposed sponsorship other than what was published in the media and a statement released by her former office on 1 February 2022, in which the former Minister confirmed that she was not consulted on the deal.

(b) Not Applicable.

Reply:

1. (a) (i) I have been informed that travel costs for the four board members amounted to R523 274.97, as indicated in NA PQ 367.

(ii) What total number of board members

(aa) Four (4) board members travelled,

(bb) Seven (7) board members did not travel.

(b) SA Tourism indicated that four members are the chairpersons of the sub-committees of the Board, led by the Chairperson.

2. (a) I was not part of any aspect of the discussions as I am new to the portfolio. However, records of the Tourism Portfolio Committee of 07 February 2023 indicate that the former Minister did inform the Committee that she was not involved. Furthermore, the Deputy-Minister indicated that he was not involved.

3. 31 January 2023

Reply:

a) I have been informed by the Department

2019/20 Financial Year

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken	(bb) What are the reasons in each case	(cc) What were the outcomes of each matter	(dd)What were the total costs incurred in each matter?
Jean-Pierre Klein t/a SA Online and Entertainment Vs. Minister of Tourism: State Attorney was instructed to defend the Action and a Notice of Intention to Defend was served on the Plaintiff and filed at court by the State Attorney. A Plea was filed and the Plaintiff applied for a Summary Judgment, which was dismissed by the court. Parties have exchanged pleadings and Plaintiff has not taken the matter any further.	Jean-Pierre Klein t/a SA Online and Entertainment brought an action against the Department claiming payment of the amount of R41 040-00 (Forty-One Thousand and Forty rand), alternatively damages suffered in the sum of R41, 040-00 arising from alleged breach of contract by the Department. The claim arises out of a contract entered into with the Department whereby services of the Programme Director were required by the Department for a function. State Attorney was instructed to defend the Action and a Notice of Intention to Defend was served on the Plaintiff and filed at court by the State Attorney. A Plea was filed and the Plaintiff applied for a Summary Judgment, which was dismissed by the court. Parties have exchanged pleadings and Plaintiff has not taken the matter any further.	Litigation in progress.	No costs paid
2. Nkuna Lucky vs. Minister of Tourism: The Department has filed a Notice of Intention to Defend the matter. A Plea has been served and filed. Pleadings closed and waited for date of hearing.	Mr Nkuna is an official of the Department and has brought a claim against the Minister for defamation of character by an official of the Department, who is Plaintiff’s supervisor. The Department has filed a Notice of Intention to Defend the matter. A Plea has been served and filed. We are waiting for progress report from the office of the State Attorney with regards to the status of the pleadings and date of hearing.	Matter finalised. Court ordered against the Department.	No costs paid
3. OD Mokoena and Another vs. Minister of Tourism and Another: The Department opposed an Application which was set-down and postponed sine die.	Claim against the Department to interdict the Minister and the Gauteng Tourism Authority from implementing the Tourism Safety Monitors/ Tourism Ambassadors Project at Vilakazi Street, Gauteng. The Applicants claim that the project is their brainchild.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
4. G Esitang vs. Department of Tourism and Another: The Department filed an Application to the Labour Court to review the decision of the GPSSBC. The Department was of the view that the award of the GPSSC was reviewable on the basis that the Arbitrator misdirected himself on legal aspects of the appointment and also that the Arbitrator’s Award was vague and not capable of being implemented. Review Application was heard on 2 November 2017 and our Application was dismissed with costs	The Applicant referred for arbitration the decision of the Department to not shortlist him for the advertised position of the Director: Labour Relations. The Applicant sought an order from the General Public Service Sector Bargaining Council (GPSSBC) that he be appointed or compensated for the loss that he suffered as a result of the decision of the Department not to shortlist him for the position. At the GPSSBC, an order was made that the Department pay him twelve (12) months’ salary of the position he applied for as compensation. The Department filed an Application to the Labour Court to review the decision of the GPSSBC. The Department was of the view that the award of the GPSSC was reviewable on the basis that the Arbitrator misdirected himself on legal aspects of the appointment and also that the Arbitrator’s Award was vague and not capable of being implemented. Review Application was heard on 2 November 2017 and our Application was dismissed with costs. The court held that the Respondent be compensated the difference between the salary he receives and the salary he would have received, had he been promoted to the position of Director: Labour Relations and Employee Health and Wellness. The compensation to be limited to 12 months. The Department has satisfied the court judgment by effecting payment to the Applicant on 5 July 2019.	Labour court ordered against the Department for payment of R175 009.00.	R221 822.00
5. Gordon Darrol du Preez t/a Gordon Builders vs. Minister of Tourism: The Department instructed the State Attorney to defend the matter and a Notice of Intention to Defend was served on the Plaintiff and filed at Court by the State Attorney on 12 September 2016.	Action against the Minister claiming for damages the plaintiff allegedly suffered as a result of not being awarded a tender by MBB, who has been appointed by the Department to implement one of its projects for social responsibility. The Department received Summons from Gordon Builders, which was served at State Attorney, Port Elizabeth. The Department instructed the State Attorney to defend the matter and a Notice of Intention to Defend was served on the Plaintiff and filed at Court by the State Attorney on 12 September 2016.	Judgment in favour of the Department was delivered on 25 April 2019 including costs.	R336 814.42
6. Lefa la Tshepo Projects (Pty) Ltd vs. Minister of Tourism and Another: To defend a claim against the Department.	To defend a claim against the Department for supply of shortfall of the material.	Department lost the case	No costs paid
7. J. van der Merwe and 5 Others vs. Minister of Tourism and Others: Defend the matter and raised a Special Plea that the Minister of Tourism is not a competent authority to be sued.	The Plaintiffs allege that they were unlawfully arrested by game rangers at the Makuya Nature Reserve for allegedly trespassing. The Plaintiff issued Summons against several Defendants, including the Minister of Tourism. We are defending the matter and raised a Special Plea that the Minister of Tourism is not a competent authority to be sued. We instructed the State Attorney to request Plaintiff’s attorney to withdraw their claim against our Minister based on our Special Plea. The State Attorney indicated that he is of the opinion the Plaintiffs will not withdraw the action against our Minister but indicated that he will ensure that no order is made against the Minister. Despite the Department having instructed the State Attorney to apply for the dismissal of Plaintiffs’ claim with costs in the event Plaintiffs did not withdraw their claim against the Minister, we are however mindful that there are numerous government departments sued by the Plaintiffs and it may not be in our best interest to lodge an Application for Dismissal of the Claim on our own. We are following on the matter to ensure that the interests of the Minister are protected.	Case was written off from litigation report	No costs paid
8. Minister of Tourism vs. Bonwelong Skills Development CC, Mr Inama and Nedbank Pty Ltd: Department filed and Urgent Application to have the Bank Accounts of Bonwelong Skills Development frozen. An Interim Order was granted with Return Date on Rule Nisi.	Litigation initiated to recover the money owed to the Department.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
9. Minister of Tourism vs. Been Around GP Advert Consulting CC: Department issued summons against Been Around for a refund for money paid to finish a project and failed to account.	Recovery of the amount owed to the Department	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
10. Minister of Tourism vs Wings Naledi: Department issued summons against Wings Naledi to account on the amount of refunds and cancellation issued. Pleadings were exchanged	Claim by Department for failure to account on the use of the Department’s credit card for payment of travel arrangement services.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
11. Minister of Tourism vs. KA Morritt/ Morritt CC: Summons were issued and served on the Defendant.	Claim by the Department based on a collision between a departmental vehicle and a vehicle belonging to and/ or driven by KA Morritt.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid

2020/21 Financial Year

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken	(bb) What are the reasons in each case	(cc) were the outcomes of each matter	(dd)What were the total costs incurred in each matter?
1. Department of Tourism v Been Around GP CC: Litigating on behalf of the Department, including, perusal of documents; consultations and drafting court papers.	To issue and serve Summons against the Defendant to recover the amount owed to the Department.	Matter is withdrawn	No costs paid
2. Minister of Tourism vs. Wings Naledi: Department issued summons against Wings Naledi to account on the amount of refunds and cancellation issued. Pleadings were exchanged	Claim by Department for failure to account on the use of the Department’s credit card for payment of travel arrangement services.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
3. Minister of Tourism vs. Corporate Skills Development Services: Application was filed to set aside the award of a tender and have the contract declared null and void abinitio.	Claim by Department for the irregular award of a tender to Corporate Skills Development Services.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
4. Minister of Tourism vs. KA Morritt/ Morritt CC Summons were issued and served on the Defendant and Pleadings exchanged.	Claim by the Department based on a collision between a departmental vehicle and a vehicle belonging to and/ or driven by KA Morritt.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
5. Minister of Tourism vs. Bonwelong Skills Development CC and Mr Inama: Department filed and Urgent Application to have the Bank Accounts of Bonwelong Skills Development frozen. An Interim Order was granted with Return Date on Rule Nisi. Summons have been issued and served on Bonwelong.	A claim for money paid in advance to Bonwelong for the implementation of the Hospitality Youth Programme in respect of Limpopo and North West Provinces. Bonwelong cancelled the Agreement with the Department but failed to pay back the advanced payment. Summons have been issued and served on Bonwelong.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
6. Second Generation Consulting t/a Rivers vs. Minister of Tourism: For perusal of the summons, consultations with client and instruction to the Office of the State Attorney to file Notice to Defend on behalf of the Department, Filed Notice of Intention to Defend the matter, investigated the claim to determine prospects of success and advised the Minister on same. Recommended settlement out of the court, settlement approved by the Minister. Concluded and signed a settlement agreement with the Plaintiff that the matter be settled out of the court.	Claim against the Department for breach of contract entered into between the Department and the Plaintiff. It is alleged that the Department failed to honour and comply with its payment obligations as provided for in the agreement.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
7. David D Mokoena and Another vs. Minister of Tourism and Another: Perusal of pleadings, consultation with client, drafting of pleadings and appearing in court on behalf of the Department.	Claim against the Department to interdict the Minister and the Gauteng Tourism Authority from implementing the Tourism Safety Monitors/ Tourism Ambassadors Project at Vilakazi Street, Gauteng. The Applicants claim that the project is their brainchild.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
8. Solidarity Trade Union v Minister of Small Business Development, Minister of Tourism and others Afriforum v Minister of Tourism and others: To defend the Applications, including, perusal of documents, consultations, research, drafting of documents, court appearance and preparation of legal opinions.	Applicants brought an urgent application to force the Respondents to provide access to certain information regarding various Funds established by government as a result of Covid-19 including the Tourism Relief Fund. The second part of the application is for an order to interdict the Ministers responsible for the various Funds to use the criteria that are allegedly discriminatory in terms of race.	Litigation in progress	No costs paid
9. Greenshoots Project & Consulting vs. Minister of Tourism & Others: No legal work was under taken and case was withdrawn.	The Applicant is challenging the procurement process of South African Tourism.	Case withdrawn	No costs paid

2021-2022

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken	(bb) What are the reasons in each case	(cc) What were the outcomes of each matter	(dd) What were the total costs incurred in each matter?
10. Solidarity and another v Minister of Tourism TEF & TRF: To defend the Applications, including, perusal of documents, consultations, research, drafting of documents, court appearance and preparation of legal opinions.	This was an urgent application to interdict the implementation of the Tourism Equity Fund by the Department. Continued litigation.	Litigation in progress.	Junior Counsel’s fees: R99 791.25 Plus Senior Counsel’s fees: R299 718.75 Total: R339 510.00
11. Lefa La Tshepo Projects v Minister of Tourism: To defend a claim against the Department.	To Department appealed the decision of the Court.	Judgment was against the Department and matter is finalised.	R43 500.00
12. Second Generation t/a 24 Rivers vs Department of Tourism: For perusal of the summons, consultations with client and instruction to the Office of the State Attorney to file Notice to Defend on behalf of the Department, Filed Notice of Intention to Defend the matter, investigated the claim to determine prospects of success and advised the Minister on same. Recommended settlement out of the court, settlement approved by the Minister. Concluded and signed a settlement agreement with the Plaintiff that the matter be settled out of the court.	Litigation to defend alleged breach of contract by the Department.	The matter was settled out of court.	R 71 353.12 was legal fees.
13. Minister of Tourism vs. Bonwelong Skills Development CC: Litigating on behalf of the Department, perusal of documents; consultations and drafting court papers. Service of combined summons by Sheriff.	Litigation initiated to recover the money owed to the Department.	Ligation in progress.	R10 553.19
14. Department of Tourism v AIMS & Nombo Mabhele: Litigating on behalf of the Department, including, perusal of documents; consultations and drafting court papers.	Litigation to recover money from the implementers of Social Responsibility Projects.	Litigation in progress.	R99 000.00
15. Department of Tourism v Been Around GP CC: Litigating on behalf of the Department, including, perusal of documents; consultations and drafting court papers.	To issue and serve Summons against the Defendant to recover the amount owed to the Department	Matter is withdrawn	R82 150.00

2022 – 2023

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken

(bb) What are the reasons in each case

(cc) What were the outcomes of each matter

(dd) What were the total costs incurred in each matter?

1. Solidarity Afriforum vs Minister of Tourism TEF & TRF: Continuation of litigation, including, drafting court papers: court appearances	Consultations, court appearances, etc.	Litigation in progress	Not Audited
2. Lefa La Tshepo vs Minister of Tourism: Consultations; drafting court papers, preparation for trial and court attendances.	Litigation to defend a claim against the Department for supply of shortfall material.	Judgment was against the Department and matter is finalised.	Not Audited
3. Second Generation t/a 24 Rivers vs Department of Tourism): Perusal of the summons, consultation with the client and instruction to the Office of the State Attorney to file Notice to Defend on behalf of the Department, filed Notice of Intention to Defend the matter, investigated the claim to determine prospects of success and advised the Minister on same. Recommended settlement out of the court which same was approved by the Minister. Concluded and signed the settlement agreement with the Plaintiff that the matter accordingly settled out of court.	Litigation for alleged breach of contract by the Department.	The matter has been settled out of court, and the settlement agreement was concluded for the Department to pay the Plaintiff an amount of R 544 000-00 instead of R732 519-22, which was originally claimed in the summons.	Not Audited
4. Amathemba Skills vs Minister of Tourism: Litigation on behalf of the Department including, issuing summons, drafting pleadings on behalf of the Department.	Litigation costs for consultations and drafting court papers, amongst others	Litigation in progress	Not Audited
5. David D Mokoena vs Minister of Tourism and other: Perusal of pleadings, consultation with client, drafting of pleadings and appearing in court on behalf of the Department.	To defend a claim against the Department for alleged copyright infringement by the Department’s Implementer, GTA.	Litigation in progress.	Not Audited
6. Minister of Tourism vs Nombo: Litigation against the Department, including, issuing summons to recover money due to the Department.	Failure to perform in terms of the signed contract	Litigation in progress	Not Audited
7. Umbuso Training Services (Pty) Ltd vs The Member of the Executive Committee, Department of Tourism: Defending the claim, which included, consultation; drafting court documents including Counter Claim.	A claim for damages arising from breach of contract.	Litigation in progress.	Not Audited
8. Chef’s Warehouse Canteen & Wine Bar and others v Minister of COGTA and Others: Litigation including: consultations; perusal of documents; preparations of memorandum of advise to Minister; preparation of the Answering affidavit for the Minister of Tourism; Perusal of Replying affidavits and heads of argument.	To advise and draft all relevant court papers, including representing the Minister of Tourism in the Court Application.	The application has been withdrawn	Not Audited
9. Minister of Tourism v Audrey Phindile Mathonsi: For service of summons upon the Defendant by the Sheriff.	Litigation to recover money owed to the Department.	Claim written-off	Not Audited
10. Minister of Tourism vs. Wayne Smith and Associates & Wayne Smith: To issue and serve Summons against the Defendant to recover the amount owed to the Department.	Litigation to recover the amount owed to the Department.	Litigation in progress.	Not Audited

b) EXPENSES ON LEGAL ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN BY SA TOURISM

(i) in the past three financial years and (ii ) and since 1 January 2023

2019/20 Financial Year

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken	(bb) What are the reasons in each case	(cc) What were the outcomes of each matter	(dd)What were the total costs incurred in each matter?
1. GODFEY GWELE Unfair Dismissal- SAT dismissed Godfrey Gwele (Employee) on the 27 February 2017 and the latter subsequently instituted CCMA proceedings against SAT	On 23 February 2019 the CCMA issued an arbitration award in favour of the Employee ordering reinstatement. SAT then proceeded to institute a review application at the Labour Court. The Labour Court then referred the matter back to the CCMA for determination of fairness of dismissal. On 19 March 2020 the CCMA issued an arbitration award in favour of SAT. The Employee has referred the matter to the Labour Court again on 03 August 2020. A replying affidavit was filed on 21 December 2020. Annual salary- R 1,247,750.00	The Applicant failed to set down the matter within the required timeframe, and SAT has decided to take no further action until a date for set down is confirmed.	R 1,263,763.70
2. Brian Monare Unfair Dismissal & Breach of Contract	1. Brian Monare was employed on a fixed term contract from 1 Feb 2010 to 31 January 2015. 2. On 30 September 2010 he was dismissed by SAT following a disciplinary hearing. 3. On 17 November 2010 he referred the matter to the CCMA and an arbitration award was granted in his favour on 31 August 2011. 4. On 13 October 2011 SAT took the arbitration award on review to the Labour Court and on 31 March 2014 granted judgement in favour of SAT finding that the CCMA lacked jurisdiction to entertain the matter. 5. On 11 November 2015 Brian Monare appealed to the Labour Appeal Court which found in his favour and ruled that the CCMA order be honoured, however by then his employment contract had already expired and he could not be reinstated. 6. On 18 November 2016 SAT upon receiving Brian Monare’s statement of claim responded and raised a special plea of prescription and after replication by Brian Monare the matter was set down for trial in the Labour Court. 7. On 2 May 2019 the Labour Court granted judgement in favour of Brian Monare which prompted SAT to apply for leave to appeal on 5 July 2019 and the matter was set down for hearing by the Labour Appeal Court on 27 August 2020.	On 22 October 2020, the Labour Appeal Court (LAC) handed down judgment against SAT on this matter. SAT was ordered to pay the applicant £257 550.42 plus interest calculated from the date on which each salary fell due. SAT was also ordered to pay the applicant’s legal costs. In total excluding legal costs, SAT is liable to pay the applicant an amount of £559 262.94. Mr Monare’s claim has been settled.	R1 387 589.46
3. Joe Public (Pty) Ltd	Review Application- Application to declare Tender no. SAT 162/19 unlawful.	Application dismissed with costs in favour of SAT with costs order.	R342,708.00

2020/21 Financial Year

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken	(bb) What are the reasons in each case	(cc) were the outcomes of each matter	(dd)What were the total costs incurred in each matter?
1. GF ANGILERI & 24 OTHERS Pleadings closed, awaiting date of set down.	Breach of Contract- Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) Assessors alleged that the TGCSA breached the Assessor Service Provider Contract by unilaterally extending the membership of its establishments by a further period of 6 months due to covid-19 pressures. They argue that the change prejudiced them in that they would lose their right to grading the establishments in the extended period. The matter was then heard by an Arbitrator who ruled in favour of the TGCSA. Claim- R 6,130,471.14	Application dismissed with costs in favour of SAT.	R 1,321,568.43
2. GREENSHOOTS PROJECTS & COMMUNICATIONS (PTY) LTD- Pleadings stage.	Review Application- Application to review the awarding of SAT Tender 162/19 by the Applicant. No damages sought against SAT but the applicant seeks a cost order against any party opposing the application on a punitive scale and alternatively, a personal cost order against responsible officials.	SAT Court papers served and filed, however the Applicant has failed to serve and file their Replying Affidavit and set the matter down for trial. SAT is waiting for the Applicant to move the application.	R 149,240.00
3. Thomas Bouwer	Unfair Labour Practice- 1. On 24 January 2020, the Applicant instituted proceedings at the CCMA for unfair labour practice relating to the payment of early retirements benefits in the form of medical contributions. 2. On 19 March 2020 the CCMA issued an arbitration award in favour of SAT dismissing the application. 3. Mr Bouwer took the award on review to the Labour Court on 7 May 2020 which was subsequently dismissed.	Application dismissed in favour of SAT.	R250,000.00

2021-2022

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken	(bb) What are the reasons in each case	(cc) What were the outcomes of each matter	(dd) What were the total costs incurred in each matter?
1. SWIFT THINKING (PTY) LTD- Pleadings closed, awaiting date of set down.	Review Application- The CEO of SAT in 2020 (Mr. Sisa Ntshona) contravened SAT's procurement processes by irregularly appointing the Respondent to provide services relating to international visitor tracking portal, techhub covid-19 tracking and data capturing. Furthermore, the CEO acted beyond his limits per DOA. In light of this, the Board of SAT had taken the matter on review for an order declaring the appointment unlawful and return of monies paid by SAT. Contract Value- R14,214,000.00 (only claim amount paid- R 8,169,109.40)	Litigation in progress.	R 1 728,475.15
2. LETSEMA CONSULTING AND ADVSORY (PTY) LTD- Pleadings closed, awaiting date of set down.	Review Application- The CEO of SAT in 2020 (Mr. Sisa Ntshona) contravened SAT's procurement processes by irregularly appointing the Respondent to provide services relating to International Tourism Sector Recovery Strategy, Enterprise Programme Management and SAT Institutional Architecture Programme. Furthermore, the CEO acted beyond his limits per DOA. In light of this, the Board of SAT has taken the matter on review for an order declaring the appointment unlawful and return of monies paid. Contract Value- R10,130,269.59	Litigation in progress.	R 1,750,695.61
3. WAVELA MTHOBELI Unfair Dismissal-	Unfair Dismissal- Employee was employed as a Strategic Officer and was dismissed pursuant to a disciplinary enquiry on account of insolence. The employee referred the matter to the CCMA claiming reinstatement, which matter was opposed by SAT. The CCMA Arbitrator ruled in favour of the employee. SAT has, after considering its prospects of success, elected to apply to the Labour Court for the CCMA Award to be reviewed and set aside. Annual salary- R 1,451,115.38	The parties entered into a settlement agreement to severe the employment relationship.	R 200,000.00

2022 – 2023

(aa) What are the details of the legal work that was undertaken	(bb) What are the reasons in each case	(cc) What were the outcomes of each matter	(dd) What were the total costs incurred in each matter?
1. ALFRED TLABUKWE MASEMENE- Pleadings stage.	Unfair Dismissal- Employee was employed as a Sourcing Specialist who was dismissed on account of gross misconduct pursuant to a disciplinary hearing. Employee referred the matter to the CCMA which ruled in favour of the Employer- SAT. At present the employee has taken the decision of the CCMA Arbitrator to the Labour Court which SAT is opposing. Annual salary- R 576,418.66	Litigation in progress.	NIL
2. BLUEPRINT GROUP Pleadings Stage	Review Application- The Applicant has instituted proceedings against SAT relating to SAT's refusal to grant access to records relating to SAT Tender- 182/20- Africa's Travel Indaba and Meetings Africa 2021-2023- Exhibition Management Company (Synergy Business Events and Exhibitions). Claim- Cost of suit	Litigation in progress.	NIL

Reply:

a) I have been informed that SA Tourism has engaged the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA), which is the leading representative airline organisation within Southern Africa.

AASA works together with leaders of the aviation industry and senior public and government officials on policy, regulatory, planning, operational, safety, security and financial matters affecting the overall profitability of the airlines and their continued sustainability.

The purpose of the engagement was to explore possible collaborations on knowledge sharing.

There has also been improved engagement opportunities with international airlines through the various Air Access committees i.e., Cape Town Air Access, Durban Direct Air Access and Gauteng Air Access where the teams formulate possible incentive programmes for reducing operational costs.

Airline pricing is complicated, and airlines are doing their best to offer the best fare. The reality is that operating costs have substantially increased over the past 12 months due to the cost of jet fuel, amongst other factors.

Other costs have increased due to exchange rates of the Rand versus stronger currencies and airlines maintain aircraft leases and agreements with external suppliers.

b) SA Tourism forms part of the Air Access structures i.e., Cape Town Air Access, Durban Direct Air Access and Gauteng Air Access.

These structures play a key role of lobbying and advocacy for airlines to consider expanding their routes across key local destinations and to add frequencies on existing routes.

The role extends to working with airlines to consider special offers as part of the domestic tourism promotion activities they conduct.

The decision to introduce new airlines lies with airlines directly, based on economic factors and available slots which are issued by the Department of Transport.

Reply:

a) What are the details of the process and/or procedure followed to identify Tourism Monitors.

I have been informed by the Department that,

• The project is introduced to Provincial tourism departments and entities, local municipalities and all the local stakeholders.
• Once the Service Provider is appointed, they draft the advert and the department approves it
• The advert to recruit Tourism Monitors is placed in local newspapers, government departments and in some instances also in traditional authorities’ offices
• Recruitment is localized as such, applicants should submit a proof of residence
• During recruitment and selection, addresses are verified to ascertain that they are within the 28 kilometer’s radius to the attraction/site.

b) What training do Tourism Monitors undergo?

The Tourism Monitors were trained in various accredited skills programmes and qualifications like;

• National Certificate in Tour Guiding
• National Certificate in Environmental practice
• National certificate in Occupational health and Safety
• Skills programme Customer Care and Volunteer safety

c) What total number have been identified, trained, completed. See below table.

 

	2019-2020	2020 – 2021	2021 – 2022	2022 – 2023
Provinces	Identified	Trained	completed	Identified	Trained	Completed	Identified	Trained	completed	Identified	Trained	Completed
Gauteng							230	230	200
Eastern Cape							200	200	169
Western Cape				100	100	85	345	345	252
Northern Cape	50	50	46				100	100	85
Free State				100	100	96	100	100	94
North West				100	100	95	100	100	94
Mpumalanga										288	288	270
Limpopo	180	180	168
KZN	370	370	350				460	460	410
SANBI Gardens				100	100	88
Isimanagaliso							230	230	206
	2019-2023
Entity	Identified	Trained	Completed
SANPARKS	312	312	253

Reply:

I do not have any official information about this matter as yet. I have requested an official report from SA Tourism, so that I can appraise myself about this matter.

Reply:

a) How is the Global Advocacy Campaign tailor-made for each tourism market?

I have been informed by the Department that the Global Advocacy Campaign is being implemented in various countries, by localising messaging for the target audience in each market. In executing the campaign, the country hubs have partnered and worked through various stakeholders in market including trade partners, influencers and other strategic non-tourism-related brand-aligned collaborations. 

The strategy of the campaign is three-fold:

• Leveraging of strategic events and trade platforms where SA Tourism is participating in each market, by engaging key stakeholders about the destination.
• Addressing barrier issues i.e., safety and security and visa challenges, amongst others, through issuing of media releases, newsletters and stakeholder engagements.
• Destination profiling content is always on various SA Tourism platforms including digital.

b) What has been the impact of various (i) international and (ii) regional campaigns on boosting destination image.

(i) International and (ii) Regional

The global “Live Again” campaign was launched in March 2022 and ran until 31 July 2022. The campaign, activated in two phases, targeted 25 countries across key global digital media platforms as follows:

• 5 global platforms used in phase 1 from 5 March – 15 April 2022: National Geographic, BBC, Expedia, Connected TV, YouTube and Gameloft.
• 8 global platforms used in phase 2 from 16 April – 31July 2022: National Geographic, BBC, CNN Expedia, Connected TV, YouTube, Gameloft, Facebook and Twitter.

The campaign resulted in the following:

Reach & awareness	Engagement & interest	Interest & Intent	Conversion
Ad impressions 374 750 898 Video views 84 759 694	Ad engagements 38 207 076 Ad clicks 1 337 661 Website visits 238 553 Website pages viewed 271 794	Website engagements with content 88 388 Website articles viewed 27 973 Website videos viewed 1 450 Deals added to wish list 1 176 Accounts created 2 545	Clicks on “BOOK NOW” 3 100

The above table demonstrates the following:

• By delivering over 374 million impressions, the cost per thousand impressions (CPM) averaged at R173,27 and an average cost per video viewed (CPV) of R0,77, both of which are above the average global CPM and CPV but explained by the quality of the ad placements and global platforms.
• Quality of the platforms is further heighted by the average ad engagement rate at 10% vs a global average of between 1% and 5%. This indicates the ads are shown to a relevant audience base.
• Campaign performance volume is top-of-the-funnel heavy, attention should be given to the intent and conversion metrics as Return On Investment indicators
• The brand tracker process is currently underway, and we should expect to see an impact on the brand tracker results.

c) how has the SA Tourism tracked the impact of the recent killing of the German tourists on :

(i) forward bookings

• South African Tourism did not track the impact of this specific incident on forward bookings. SA Tourism has, however, received information on cancellations of foreign bookings, with no reason given for the said cancellation.
• The average bookings over a normal 3-year period is 64,496. The average cancellation over the same period is 2.48%

(ii) cancellations

• The total cancellation rate for various reasons, not specifically linked to this incident was 3.02%

(iii) travel restrictions to the Republic

• No travel restrictions experienced as a result of the incident.

d) what steps has she taken to engage the Ministers in the security cluster to curb crime against tourists

The mandate of the Security Cluster is to ensure the safety of all, including tourists.

However, the Department continues to engage relevant Departments and implements various initiatives aimed at ensuring that tourists are safe, through the National Tourism Safety Strategy and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

e) what measures must the Republic put in place to avoid a repeat of the incidents like the recent murder of the German tourist around the Numbi Gate?

It is the mandate of the South African Police Service to deal with all crime.

 

Reply:

I do not have any official information about this matter as yet. I have requested an official report from SA Tourism, so that I can appraise myself about this matter.

Reply:

Whether the department has made any:

(a) Plans to particularly support small, local and rural businesses in the tourism sector that are negatively impacted by continuous and increasing load shedding; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details

I have been informed that the Department introduced the Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP) in 2017/18 to privately-owned tourism enterprises that meet the eligibility criteria of the programme, regardless of where they are, to offer them assistance to adopt responsible tourism practices through installing solutions for the sustainable management and usage of electricity and water resources.

The nature of support offered includes a resource efficiency assessment with recommendations on the retrofitting/ installation of energy and water efficiency solutions (e.g. equipment and systems) as well as grant funding support (addressed in b) below) towards the cost of installing recommended solutions. It is most likely that recommended solutions will also address the impact of load-shedding.

(b) Funding available to particularly support small, local and rural businesses in the tourism sector that are negatively impacted by continuous and increasing load shedding; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details

The GTIP offers support to small tourism enterprises in the form of partial grant funding support. The first stage of the application process involves a resource efficiency audit, the cost of which is fully covered under the GTIP programme, followed by a second phase where an applicant can apply for funding support (50% to 90% up to R1m) on the cost of installing relevant technologies and equipment recommended in the resource efficiency audit during the first stage.

Reply:

(a) What are the details of the measures and/or mechanisms that her department has in place to mitigate the impact of crime on tourism in;

(i) The Republic as a whole

I have been informed by the Department that, at the national level and in line with the provisions of the National Tourism Safety Strategy, the Department of Tourism has set up the National Tourism Safety Forum which is a public-private sector platform responsible for the co-ordination and integration of safety mechanisms or measures for tourists in distress. The measures include proactive, responsive and aftercare programmes and initiatives.

(ii) In Mpumalanga specifically

The Department of Tourism in partnership with Mpumalanga Parks Tourism Agencies, the South African Police Services, traffic police and community safety policing forums conducted a number of Joint Tourism Safety Awareness Campaigns to create awareness and promote tourism safety in the province.

The Department implemented the second phase of the Tourism Monitors Programme which included 288 youth who were trained and deployed to various tourism attractions in Mpumalanga.

The Department in partnership with Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency conducted the joint festive season tourism safety campaigns from 2 – 17 December 2022. The purpose of the joint festive season tourism safety awareness campaigns was to promote tourism safety on Panorama route which include Graskop, Hazyview, Sabie, Kruger Park; N4 Road Mataffin; Coopersdal - N4 as well as R539 Numbi Road.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mr. Fish Mahlalela held a Tourism Safety Stakeholder Engagement on 2nd September 2022, in Hazeyview Sun in Mpumalanga. The purpose of the meeting was to understand the challenges faced by the community and to look at opportunities that could be considered for community involvement in tourism.

(b) The Department is currently evaluating the effect of the mechanism put in place from 1 November 2022 to 31 January 2023.

Reply:

a) The protocol is within the competency of the South African Police Services as the custodian of safety and security.

b) The Department was informed that a case of a missing person has been opened at Pinelands Police Stations and a search was initiated by the South African Police Services. The Western Cape Provincial Department of Economic Development and Tourism is in contact with the parents of the missing person and is providing aftercare support. The department has also informed the German Embassy, Consul and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Reply:

(a) (i) Chief Executive officer

I have been informed that the position of Chief Executive Officer is currently vacant and thus there are no salary costs incurred. The only costs incurred is the payment of an acting allowance to the Chief Marketing Officer who is the acting CEO.

The entity’s salaries are governed by the Guaranteed Remuneration Policy and the employment offers are at Notch 1. Should a need arise to offer beyond the Notch 1, this process would require a Board resolution. Deviations are based on a number of reasons including the following: What the candidate is currently on, benefits and other factors which the candidate will discuss with the Board.

Salary scales:

Grade	Notch 1	Maximum Notch
F2	R 2 421 023	R 2 951 678

(ii) Top executive positions

Other executives in the organisation are graded at F1. The salary scales for this grade are below:

Grade	Notch 1	Maximum Notch
F1	R 1 984 075	R 2 562 045

(b) What total amount does each get paid to attend a meeting.

The executives are not paid to attend meetings as they form part of SA Tourism staff and not board members.

Reply:

a) What is the current status of various international airlines with regard to flying to the Republic post COVID-19

A significant number of airlines have restored their pre-Covid route networks within the Airports Company South Africa’s (ACSA) network. The restoration of International traffic continues to grow thus having a positive impact on the recovery at OR Tambo International Airport, King Shaka International Airport and Cape Town International Airport. Currently, a total of 44 international airlines are operating scheduled services at ACSA airports.

International air capacity is recovering positively compared to domestic supply. Supply for the next 12 months is 80% of the pre-pandemic supply overall, however, it is important to note the uneven recovery with the Middle East almost fully recovered while Asia and Australasia are just over half of the 2019 level of seats available to South Africa.

Fares are up across most of South Africa’s direct routes as fewer options are currently available to travellers. Most of South Africa’s key markets are serviced by one or two airlines which makes our destination a difficult seller’s market with consumers with limited alternatives available. Critical to improving the present recovery will be to defend the airlines already active in 2022 and creating incentives to attract new routes, or increased frequencies on existing route.

Some of the key priority markets i.e., Brazil, India, Canada, Japan, and Russia have no direct airlift. In addition, Nigeria, Germany, France, Switzerland, Netherlands, and China are currently serviced by one airline, and adding airlines will have an impact on pricing and therefore arrivals and spend in South Africa from those markets.

b) What engagements has she had with international airlines

SA Tourism is now a registered member of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) which is the leading representative airline organisation within Southern Africa, working together with leaders of the aviation industry and senior public and government officials on policy, regulatory, planning, operational, safety, security and financial matters affecting the overall profitability of the airlines and their continued sustainability.

There has also been improved engagement opportunities with international airlines through the various Air Access committees i.e., Cape Town Air Access, Durban Direct Air Access and Gauteng Air Access where the teams formulate possible incentive programmes for reducing operational costs.

Furthermore, SA Tourism in collaboration with provincial air access structures participates at the annual Routes World, an event that bring together airlines, airports, aviation stakeholders and destinations from across the world to build air services and global economic growth. The event provides a platform for conversations between senior network planners that will define the industry's global future. South Africa uses the platform as an an opportunity to entice airline route planners and positions SA as destination of choice as one of the key destinations for their future route network.

c) What are the tangible outcomes of the specified engagements in increasing international arrivals?

Some of the notable outcomes include the following:

• Following lengthy discussions, SA Tourism and Emirates Airlines concluded a collaborative MOU. The MOU is aimed at unlocking airlift opportunities to increase arrivals from key source markets including the markets where there is no direct access. Emirates Airlines have increased frequencies to Cape Town and will be increasing frequencies to Johannesburg in March bringing the number of flights to 42 a week in order to get close to pre pandemic levels.
• In collaboration with air access partners from the Airports Company of South Africa, the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, the Gauteng Tourism Authority, to Cape Town Tourism and WESGRO, Air Belgium launched a two-times-a-week service between Brussels, Johannesburg and Cape Town, effective from 14th September 2022.
• United Airlines restarted the Newark – Cape Town route much from 5 June 2022, with three flights a week with the added intention to increase frequencies as well.
• Qatar Airways MOU is at advanced stage and scheduled to be signed at Meetings Africa 2023).
• Furthermore, there are a few airlines who have chosen to operate on a seasonal calendar (6months) while assessing the situation with a view to maximise their frequencies.
• From the identified pipeline, we’ve received commitment from Latam in South America and Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong who will resume their flights by Quarter 4 of 2023.
• Air China's new direct flight from Beijing to Johannesburg.

Reply:

(a) (i) The department owns none [Zero (0)] of the state-owned resorts.

(ii) Information on the functionality of such resorts may be obtained from the respective owning entities (i.e. Provincial, some National Entities like SANParks and Municipalities)

(b) (i)-(iii)

The Department assisted with maintenance of some of the National and Provisional state owned tourism facilities. The Department has also developed a budget resort Network and Brand Concept for piloting.

Reply:

Through the Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP) the Department offers partial grant funding support on the cost of retrofitting tourism facilities with energy and water efficiency equipment and systems based on the outcome of a resource efficiency audit. Those in the small-scale hospitality industry can apply for the GTIP. The GTIP is housed, managed and administered by the IDC and all applications to the programme is received, processed and managed by the IDC. The department is, however, directly involved in the final adjudication of grant funding support for eligible and qualifying applications as part of the GTIP adjudication panel made up of members from the IDC and the department.

Reply:

Tourism and wildlife authorities are working together with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to crack down on poaching on the shores of Lake Jozini in northern KwaZulu Natal. The Member is advised to refer the question to the Minister of Police.

Reply:

(i) Minister Lindiwe Nonceba Sisulu

(2021 -2023) Has continued to use vehicle purchased by the Department.

(ii) Former Minister Mmamoloko ‘Nkensani’ Kubayi

	1 June 2019 – 2020	2020-2021
a) Make	VOLVO BASED IN CAPETOWN	VOLVO BASED IN PRETORIA
b) Model	XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION	XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION
c) Year of manufacture	2020	2020
d) Cost	R700 000.00	R700 000.00
e) Purchase date	2020/12/07	2020/12/07

(iii) Deputy Minister Fish Amos Mahlalela

	1 June 2019 – 2020	2020-2021
a) Make	MERCEDES-BENZ BASED IN CAPETOWN	AUDI Q7 BASED IN PRETORIA
b) Model	MERCEDES-BENZ E350	AUDI Q7 SUV
c) Year of manufacture	2015	2015
d) Cost	R762 443.00	R878 700.00
e) Purchase date	2015/03/18	2015/02/04

iv) Deputy Minister Fish Amos Mahlalela (June 2019-2021)

	2021-2022	2022-2023
a) Make	VOLVO XC D4 BASED IN CAPETOWN	VOLVO XC D4 BASED IN PRETORIA
b) Model	XC40 D4-AWD G/T Momentum	XC40 D4-AWD G/T Momentum
c) Year of manufacture	2021	2021
d) Cost	R700 000.00	R700 000.00
e) Purchase date	2021/03/24	2021/03/24

Reply:

(a)-(c)Tourism is a concurrent function. Bourkes Luck Potholes is site owned and managed by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government. The Department will, however, engage with the Provincial Department and offer support. The Honourable Member is requested to refer this question to the relevant authority.

 

 

 

Reply:

(a) Events and conferences

	(aaa) 2021-22 financial year	(bbb) since 1 April 2022
(aa) Minister	74 896.07	To be audited
(bb) Deputy Minister	360 756.65	To be audited
(cc) Director General	20 848.50	To be audited

(b) Travel

	(aaa) 2021-22 financial year	(bbb) since 1 April 2022
(aa) Minister	1 552 304.13	To be audited
(bb) Deputy Minister	423 837.29	To be audited
(cc) Director General	39 329.29	To be audited

(c) Expenses for running the office

	(aaa) 2021-22 financial year	(bbb) since 1 April 2022
(aa) Minister	985 833.13	To be audited
(bb) Deputy Minister	648 598.68	To be audited
(cc) Director General	60 608.48	To be audited

(d) (i) Flowers, (ii) condolence cards

	(aaa) 2021-22 financial year	(bbb) since 1 April 2022
(aa) Minister	1 500.00	To be audited
(bb) Deputy Minister	0.00	To be audited
(cc) Director General	1 000.00	To be audited

(d) (iii) Stationery

	(aaa) 2021-22 financial year	(bbb) since 1 April 2022
(aa) Minister	3 046.70	To be audited
(bb) Deputy Minister	65 341.10	To be audited
(cc) Director General	4 240.00	To be audited

Reply:

Grading fees charged by TGCSA is determined by three (3) variables namely the number of units the establishment has, the category of the establishment and the average room rate. The National Grading system is a voluntary scheme and membership is reliant on members’ intention to be graded. Targets are based on the South African Tourism Annual Performance targets.

1. (a)(i)-(ii) The target for number of graded establishments for the period with accompanying budget and revenue is below:

 

Year	TGCSA Budget	TGCSA Revenue Received	Target Graded Establishments	Actual Graded Establishments	Variance	Reason for Variance
2019/20	R 58 M	R 23 M	6229	5 173	-1 056	High Cancellation Rate
2020/21	R 61 M	R 18 M	N/A (Due to Covid-19 pandemic)	5 034	5 034	No target set due to the Covid-19 pandemic
2021/22	R64 M	R 15 M	5250	4 707	-543	Limited establishments open due to Covid-19

The percentage breakdown of establishments per province is reflected below for 2019-20; 2020-21 and Year-to-date (YTD) 2021-22:

(a) (i) and (ii) The percentage breakdown of establishments per province is reflected below for 2019-20; 2020-21 and Year-to-date (YTD) 2021-22:

Province	2019-20	2020-21	YTD 2021-22
Eastern Cape	12%	13%	13%
Free State	3%	3%	3%
Gauteng	22%	21%	23%
KwaZulu Natal	13%	13%	13%
Limpopo	7%	7%	7%
Mpumalanga	7%	8%	7%
North West	5%	5%	5%
Northern Cape	3%	3%	3%
Western Cape	29%	27%	26%

(2) (a) and (b)

2020 – 2021 have been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic as many establishments suspended trading or closed permanently. Fiscal 2022/23 has seen a return to business and many establishments re-joining TGCSA star grading system. Quality Assurance is key to the tourism sectors success, therefore TGCSA is currently reviewing the post-pandemic consumer requirements and key tourism sector changes to assess the impact of sector change on the TGCSA grading criteria. Many interventions such as workshops, training and the implementation of the Tourism Grading Supporting Program are in progress. Fiscal 2022/23 is on track for the achievement of its current targets of 5 355 Graded establishments for the fiscal.

Reply:

a) What processes were used to appoint service providers for tourism marketing strategies in international markets in each financial year in each market?

SA Tourism followed the prescribed processes and procedures as outlined in the organisation’s supply chain procurement policy in the appointment of in-market agencies. These were appointed through a competitive bidding process.

(b) who were the appointed service providers? (c) What amount was (i) budgeted and (ii)

spent?

Most agency contracts are not retainer contracts but project-by-project basis contracts.

Services Procured	Business Unit	Budgeted and Spent Amounts
Creative Services	India- Mumbai	Rate card/Variable cost
Digital Services	India- Mumbai	Variable cost
Event Management, Activation and Brand Experience Services	India- Mumbai	Rate card/Variable cost
Media Buy	India- Mumbai	Rate Card
Integrated Marketing Services	South Europe Office	Rate card/Variable cost
Digital Activation and Creative Services	Central Europe	Rate card/Variable cost
Integrated PR & Marketing Services	Central Europe	Rate card/Variable cost
Media Buy	Australia	Rate card/Variable cost
B2C & B2B Media Strategy, planning and buying Agency	UK & IRELAND	Rate card/Variable cost
Public relations and communication services	UK & IRELAND	Rate card
Creative, digital, B2C & B2B Media Strategy, planning and buying and activation services	North Europe	Rate card/Variable cost
Integrated PR & Marketing Services	North Europe	Rate card/Variable cost
Marketing Services	Africa	Rate card/Variable cost
Media Services	Africa	Rate card/Variable cost
Digital Services	Africa	Rate card/Variable cost
Activations Services	Africa	Rate card/Variable cost
Digital Marketing Services	Africa	Rate card/Variable cost
Multi-Disciplinary 360 Degree Marketing Services	South America	Rate Card

(d) how are the (i) successes and (ii) failures of the marketing strategies measured?

Evaluation metrics for measuring successes of campaigns are predetermined and articulated upfront in the respective Annual Performance Plans in the form of Technical Indicator Descriptions. Failures will be determined against non-achievement of these.

(e) what are the results of the marketing strategies in each market in each year?

2020/21	2021/22	2022/23
Global lockdown and travel restrictions in source markets. No in-market campaigns implemented as there was no assigned investment.	Planned deal driven campaigns were executed as stated on pages 54 of the 2021/22 SA Tourism Annual Report tabled to Parliament.	Delivery on the planned campaigns for this fiscal is currently in progress.

(f) what lessons have been learnt from the tourism marketing strategies in each of the past three financial years in each case?

Having a compelling brand positioning supported by sufficient financial investment and an all of Government barrier removal approach is critical to win. This is underpinned by building strategies over a long time to create consistency and affinity in the consumer's mind whilst staying agile enough to course correct when the need arises. 

Reply:

(1) No funds were spent on a pre-recorded video message

(2) There was no budget allocated to a pre-recorded video message

(3) It is the intention of the Department to do a pre-recorded message by the Minister as part of the Festive Season Tourism Safety Awareness campaign. This pre-recorded message will provide precautionary safety tips and advice to tourists, whilst also providing the key emergency numbers should tourists require support. The department’s tourist safety plan, emphasises “Proactive Measures” which include safety awareness messaging like the pre-recorded message. Providing pre-cautionary safety tips and advice to tourist in any form, be it through SMS notification, website posting, pamphlets or leaflets, videos clips, radio messages, etc. is always advisable. It’s a common practice in many countries where authorities use various platforms to provide generic tourist information, including messaging on safety and support.

(4) To reiterate, no money was spent on the pre-recorded message.

Reply:

How is SA Tourism (a) packaging messages around incidents such as the murder of a Ukranian tourist in 2018 and the recent murder of a German tourist

a) South African Tourism has regularly kept all (domestic and international) trade partners and stakeholders up to date with regards to issues that impact on South Africa including safety and security. To this end, over the last few months, South African Tourism has participated in key trade shows in various parts of the world including IMEX America, International Golf Travel Market in Italy, participation at World Routes in the United States of America and Travel Expo in Zimbabwe and also currently at a Tourism industry leadership conference in Botswana with a constant message that South Africa remains a safe destination.

Following the incident of the murder of the German tourist, South African Tourism released a joint statement together with private sector industry partner, TBCSA, condemning the incident. This was followed by a media briefing led by Minister of Tourism Lindiwe Sisulu after having met with the affected tourists and the victim’s wife. South African Tourism has reiterated the Minister’s message that such incidents are taken very seriously as the safety of tourists and citizens alike remains key. Over and above this, in all the marketing and promotional work that South African Tourism embarks on, the message that we are a safe destination is shown through the various interactive and immersive experiences shown in the visual elements through our people.

(b) working with the (i) SA Police Service and (ii) private sector to ensure that the image of the Republic as a preferred tourist destination is not tarnished further?

b) We have a National Tourism Safety Strategy with a view to foster public- private sector partnership in addressing issues of tourism safety in a more coordinated manner to provide an enhanced visitor experience and in the long term to change perceptions of South Africa as an unsafe destination. The National Tourism Safety Strategy is centered upon three key pillars which include, Proactive measures (putting in place measures to ensure that tourists are safe before they embark on a trip), Responsive measures (mechanisms that ensure quick and effective turnaround time to attend to tourist in distress when an incident of crime occur); and Aftercare Programmes (providing care and comfort to tourist in distress immediately after an incident has occurred and beyond).

In working with the SA Police Services and the Department of Tourism, South African Tourism co-ordinates key messaging on a case by case basis with the sole aim of synchronizing messaging and efforts relating to citizen and tourists’ safety in the build up to the festive season and beyond. We continue with our efforts of working with the greater tourism sector in removing any barriers that hinder the growth of our sector.

SA Tourism, Mpumalanga Tourism and the private sector have recently collaborated to improve safety around the access routes into the Kruger National Park.

Reply:

(a) The department instructed the State Attorney to recover the R50 000.00 from the business owner. Summons was issued and a Default Judgment was obtained. Currently, the State Attorney is waiting for the Court to grant the writ of execution.

(b) The independent investigation is in progress.

Reply:

The internal drafting of a new Green Paper for tourism has been finalised and external consultations on the draft are being undertaken. It is intended to finalise the consultations at the end of the 2022/23 financial year.

 



Reply:

1. The Department has become aware through reports in the public domain of the introduction of nomad visa regimes by countries including African countries.

2 The Department of Tourism engages the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) on visa matters prioritising tourism priority markets identified in the country’s marketing investment framework.

DHA has indicated during discussions that they are considering the issuing of remote working visas. In addition, one of the five objectives of Operation Vulindlela refers to ‘A visa regime that attracts skills and grows tourism’.

Reply:

a) The Department is currently running the Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP) campaign on its social media platforms.

b) No advertising costs have been incurred on the Green Tourism Incentive Programme social media campaign including on i) Facebook ii) Instagram iii) Twitter iv) YouTube and v) LinkedIn.

c) None

 

Reply:

(1) (a) (i) – (ii) Marketing Events

Please refer to the SA Tourism Annual Reports for the periods stated below. For your convenience, a link to each has been provided:

• 01 April 2019- 31 March 2020

South African Tourism Annual Report tabled on 5 November 2020, ATC no 160 of 2020

https://live.southafrica.net/media/278970/sat-annual-report-2019_2020.pdf

Kindly refer to pages 43 to 56

• 01 April 2020 – 31 March 2021

South African Tourism Annual Report tabled on 30 September 2021, ATC no 133 of 2021

https://live.southafrica.net/media/290945/sat-a-report-2020-21-final.pdf

Kindly refer to pages 46 to 61

• 01 April 2021 – 31 March 2022

Annual Report tabled on 30 September 2022, ATC no 150 of 2022…, pages 47 to 54

https://live.southafrica.net/media/298986/south_african_tourism_2021_2022_annual_report.pdf

Kindly refer to pages 47 to 54

• 01 April 2022 – to date

Information will be finalised after the end of the fiscal.

(a) (iii) Criteria for Marketing events

The SA Tourism Marketing Investment Portfolio determines where market activities take place.

(b) (i)-(iv) Partners and Markets

(i) Relevant partners are detailed in the SA Tourism Annual Reports as indicated above.

(ii) Partners are selected based on criteria in the SA Tourism Partnership Policy.

(iii)- (iv) Kindly refer to the South African Tourism Annual Reports as per (1) (a) above

(c) (i) Budget and spent for each Financial Year

• 01 April 2019- 31 March 2020

Information on page 61 of the South African Tourism Annual Report for the 01 April 2019- 31 March 2020 details the budget and expenditure on Leisure Tourism Marketing for the fiscal.

• 01 April 2020- 31 March 2021

Information on page 72 of the of the South African Tourism Annual Report for the 01 April 2020- 31 March 2021 details the budget and expenditure on Leisure Tourism Marketing for the fiscal.

• 01 April 2021- 31 March 2022

Information on page 62 of the of the South African Tourism Annual Report for the 01 April 2021- 31 March 2022 details the budget and expenditure on Leisure Tourism Marketing for the fiscal.

• 01 April 2022 – to date

The Budget is reflected in the Annual Performance Plan for 2022-2023

Kindly find the link below and refer to page 67. Please note the Annual Performance Plan for South African Tourism was tabled on 18 March 2022, ATC no 42 of 2022

Please note the expenditure still needs to be audited

(2) Successes and failures

(a) Evaluation metrics for measuring successes of events and programmes are predetermined and articulated upfront in the respective Annual Performance Plans. Failures will be determined against non-achievement of these.

(b) Performance results can be found in the South African Tourism Annual Reports referred to above.

Kindly note:

1. Budgets and targets are available in the tabled Annual Performance Plans since 2019
2. Furthermore, information is also available in presentations to the Portfolio Committee by SA Tourism as well as the minutes agreed to by the Portfolio Committee on Tourism since 01 April 2019 to date.
3. Responses by the Minister to similar questions on Marketing.

Reply:

The Department of Tourism is not participating in the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to be held in Egypt in November 2022. The attendance and participation at Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is the responsibility of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment.

Reply:

(a) (i) No persons have applied for financial support under the Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP) during Quarter One (Q1) and Quarter Two (Q2) of the 2022/2023 Financial Year as there were no GTIP application windows open during this period.

Applications for the GTIP are managed through defined application windows, during which a call for applications are published to encourage prospective applicants to submit applications for support in line with the programme guidelines.

During Q1 and Q2 of the 2022/2023 Financial Year, the GTIP team was busy processing pipeline applications including the 179 applications received during the previous application window that was open from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022. The next application window opened on 10 October 2022 and will close on 31 January 2023, after which the number of applications received can be reported on.

a) (ii) Not applicable

(b) &(c) Not applicable

 

Reply:

(a) The Department of Tourism has put transformation at the centre of its programmes since the promulgation of the Tourism B-BBEE Sector Code in 2015. The first Tourism Transformation Council of South Africa was formally known as the Tourism B-BBEE Charter Council, was appointed in 2012. The Council is appointed with representatives from civil society, tourism businesses and labour. In 2019/20 the name was formally changed to the Tourism Transformation Council of South Africa. A call for the nomination of new members to be appointed to the Tourism Transformation Council of South Africa (TTCSA) was issued publicly in the national newspapers on the weekend of 30 October 2022, including on 02 November 2022. The closing date for nominations was 30 November 2022.

(b) The lifespan of the TTCSA is 3 years.

(c) In accordance with the Amended Guidelines for Developing and Gazetting Sector Codes, issued under Section 9 of the B-BBEE Amendment Act, the Minister has the responsibility to appoint members of the Sector Charter Council to monitor transformation in the sector. According to Section 6 of the Act, members of the Council must represent different relevant constituencies including businesses (large and small), trade unions, community-based organisations, youth, academics and others. Criteria for nominees is published in the call for nominations. The Council should consist of not fewer than 10 and no more than 15 members.

(d) The TTCSA is mandated to:

• Provide guidance on sector-specific matters affecting B-BBEE in entities within the sector.
• Compile reports on the status of B-BBEE within the sector.
• Share information with sector members, approved accreditation agencies, B-BBEE Commission, B-BBEE Presidential Advisory Council, the Line Minister and the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
• Monitor the implementation of the Amended Tourism B-BBEE Sector Code.

(e)(i). The TTCSA is appointed to encourage and support transformation in the Tourism sector in order to ensure inclusive growth. The Council monitors the implementation of the objectives of the Amended Tourism B-BBEE Sector Code. The Council also advises the Minister on transformation matters in both the public and private sectors.

(e)((ii). The TTCSA measures the state of transformation in the tourism sector by:

a) Conducting annual studies on the state of implementation of the Amended Tourism B-BBEE Sector Code in the five applicable elements including: Ownership; Management Control; Skills Development; Enterprise and Supplier Development and Socio-Economic Development.

b) Quarterly Reports submitted to the Minister on the business of the Council.

c) Hosting Transformation Dialogues and Roundtables.

d) Submission of adhoc reports as requested by the Minister

 

Reply:

1. and (2) The Roadshow was a mission to South Africa by UAE authorities. It would therefore not be prudent for South Africa to respond on the details of the mission.

 

Reply:

a) What tourism marketing strategies aimed at international markets have taken place?

The marketing strategies in key source markets are focused on delivering brand positioning campaigns to both consumers and the distribution channel (traditional tourism trade partners and non-traditional partners). These are designed to improve South Africa’s brand strength by creating awareness of the destination and its value proposition and by also showcasing value for money products, experiences and attractions.

Key strategic focus areas are:

(i) Consumer acquisition through:

• the localising of the global marketing campaign.
• optimising marketing investment through targeted and focused interventions in the selected markets.

(ii) Distribution channel strengthening and innovation through:

• implementation of engagement initiatives to reconnect and maintain relationships with trade.
• formation of strategic partnerships that offer opportunities, affinity and scale.
• partnering with relevant stakeholders for ease of travel facilitation.

(iii) Supporting the transformation of the sector by:

• diversifying of product offering in market to include SMMEs, the youth and Women in Tourism.
• providing market access platforms for them to enter the market.

b) Where did the specified marketing take place?

South African Tourism has offices in 9 countries, globally operating as regional hubs servicing 24 key source markets and watchlist markets.

SA Tourism Country Offices	Countries They Service
South Africa Head Office	Central, East and Land Africa Hub: Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana, Namibia
Nigeria Office	West Africa Hub: Nigeria and Ghana
North America Office	USA and Canada
South America Office (GSA)	Brazil
Germany Office	Germany, Austria and Switzerland
UK Office	UK and Ireland
France Office	France, Spain, Italy and Portugal
Netherlands Office	Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden
India Office	India
China Office	China
Japan Office	Japan
Australia Office	Australia and New Zealand

c) nWhat criteria were used to select where marketing would take place?

In early 2020, South African Tourism initiated a revision of the Marketing Prioritisation and Investment Framework, using 2019 as the base year to review the portfolio. The framework made use of 33 variables related to performance, outlook, South Africa’s ability to win in the market, return on past investments, and other criteria. A total of 24 markets were identified for prioritisation and were segmented into 16 growth and 8 defend markets, with an additional set of watchlist markets.

d) Who were the partners in this regard?

In collaborating with the distribution channel, SA Tourism maintains relationships with the channel partners already selling South Africa in market to help defend our market share (2019 levels). SA Tourism also taps into the growth opportunities created through the expansion of the distribution channel and the leveraging of e-commerce platforms and non-tourism partners.

e) What criteria were used as to which partners would be used?

SA Tourism has a partnership policy and partnership framework that guides the organisation on partnerships.

f) On what dates did the marketing take place?

SA Tourism’s marketing plans are approved annually for implementation between 01 April to 31 March fiscal period.

g) At which tourism markets were the tourism strategies aimed in each (i) of the past three financial years and (ii) case?

(i) and (ii) Tourism marketing strategies are targeted at the SA Tourism source markets as defined by the SA Tourism Investment Framework of 2020.

Reply:

(1) (a) and (b)

The Department and SA Tourism work with Provinces and Local Government through the MINMEC structures. The Department also works with sister departments as well as entities at a National level through the government clusters and bilateral mechanisms. Furthermore, the Department convenes the National Tourism Stakeholder Forum (NTSF) which is a platform that amongst others enables engagements between industry and the various departments that contribute to tourism growth and development. These platforms cover the entire spectrum of matters pertaining to tourism growth and development including marketing and promotion of destination South Africa, product development and enhancement amongst others in as far as government’s role is concerned.

(2) No

Reply:

(a) and (b) In light of the fact that such a process will have implications for affected parties, e.g.employees it is prudent that the relevant information will be made available upon conclusion of the whole process.

These are some of the issues that will be considered in the merger. It is not at this stage the intention nor the indication that jobs will be lost. The purpose of the merger is a decision taken in the Cabinet meeting of 9 June 2021 that there should be a cut down on the number of entities so that there is a consolidation of purpose. The intention was never about cutting off of jobs.

Reply:

The Honourable member is kindly referred to the response to his previous similar Question no 2683 dated 26 Augustus 2022 (Internal Question Paper no 27).

Appointment and recruitment of officials in Government Departments and Entities is done in accordance to the provision of the Public Service Act and Regulations as well as applicable Policies for entities.

Reply:

a) Deputy Director-General: Corporate Management,

b) Precautionary,

c) (i) The investigator was appointed and commenced with the investigation, and

(ii) The matter is a priority, however investigation conclusion is not within the control of the department but dependent on the process, the investigator and the affected parties.

Reply:

(1)

No.	Project Name	Project Progress
1	LP Matsila Lodge	These projects are currently at the tender evaluation stage for the appointment of contractors.
2	LP Phiphidi Waterfall
3	LP The Oaks Lodge
4	LP Ngove
5	LP Tisane
6	FS Vredefort Dome
7	KZN Muzi Pan
8	EC Mthonsi Lodge
9	EC Qatywa Lodge
10	LP Nandoni Dam
11	FS QwaQwa Guest House	These project sites have been handed over to contractors who are busy with site establishment and compliance with Legal, Health & Safety and Regulatory requirements.
12	FS Monontsha
13	NW Manyane Lodge	For all these projects, tender documents are currently being finalised for the procurement of contractors.
14	NW Lotlamoreng Dam
15	MP Numbi Gate (Two separate pojects i.e. Numbi Nkambeni and Numbi Mdluli)
16	LP VhaTsonga
17	NC Platfontein Lodge	Concept reports are being finalized by the Professional Service Providers for these projects.
18	NC Kamiesberg
19	KZN Anton Lembede Museum eThekwini Municipality	Design Development is currently being finalized for these projects.
20	NC McGregor Museum
21	KZN AmaHlubi Cultural Heritage
22	NW Sol Plaatjie Exhibition at Mafikeng Museum
23	NW Lehurutshe Liberation Heritage Museum
24	EC Maluti Hiking Trail	Construction works have commenced on site for these projects
25	EC Nyandeni Chalets
26	EC Western Tembuland
27	LP Tshathogwe Game Farm
28	LP Mtititi Game Farm
29	LP Mapate Recreational Social Tourism Facility
30	MP Mnisi Resort	The community had secured separate funding and commenced construction on this project. The project was therefore handed over to the Community and removed from the list of projects to be implemented by the Department.

(2) (a) The projects were selected based on their alignment to the department’s strategic objectives of inclusive tourism growth, focus on rural tourism and the diversification of tourism offerings.

(b) The benefiting owning entities, Provincial and Local Government of those projects were consulted on these projects. No local community organisations were engaged.

Reply:

(a) The Zimbabwe Exemption Permits are for Zimbabwean nationals to work in South Africa. Thus, permit holders are not tourists and decisions related to such permits should not have a direct bearing on tourism, if anything, as those who would still want to come to South Africa for shopping in particular post the validity period of their permits would add to tourist numbers as they would not be coming for work but as tourists.

(b) The biggest source of arrivals for South Africa In the 2020/21 financial year was the Africa region with 2,3 million arrivals. South African Tourism, which is an entity of the Department, continues to drive its marketing efforts in the Africa Land markets to:

• Encourage repeat travelers to visit more frequently by providing relevant value for money deals and discounts that show new, fun and varied experience.
• Activate deal driven campaigns through social media, digital advertising and radio platforms.
• Reprioritise the distribution channels to build their knowledge and familiarity of South Africa’s leisure and business event experiences through reinvented tools and platforms that are in line with the evolution of the consumer.

Reply:

a) There are specific prescribed procedures for the development on any policy review - but all entail consultation with structures/private entities/stakeholders outside of Government, including civil society. Such consultations and advocacy programmes contribute to shaping government policies and strategies. The inputs received by the Department, following wide consultations, were used to develop a draft review document which will be released for broader consultation in due course.

b) Not applicable

 

Reply:

The lead department for the South African Pavilion at the Dubai Expo was the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), as explained by the Acting CEO of SA Tourism during the Question and Answer session of the meeting with the Portfolio Committee on Tourism on 6 September 2022.

It was also indicated that DTIC are the lead Department in the reply to Question no 2340, tabled on 6 July 2022, and the reply to Question 2442 of Hon. MSF De Freitas asked on 26 August 2022. It is therefore suggested that the Honourable member redirect her question to the relevant Minister.

(1) and (2) Not applicable

 

Reply:

(aa) Vilakazi Street in Soweto

(a) (i) Assisting and (ii) involved

• Supported the process to refine the City of Johannesburg’s Vilakazi Street Precinct Plan since 2017.
• Developed architectural designs for one (1) prioritised element on the Vilakazi Street precinct plan, but for ease-of-use in various precincts across the country.
• The scope of the project entailed the development of three (3) sets of architectural solutions for the Canopy/Structure/Shelter for informal traders, public/street market square/space, including restaurant in 2021/2022.
• Initiated implementation of Phase 3a of the Tourism Precinct Methodology for township tourism precincts at Vilakazi Street Precinct in 2022/2023. This project pertains to working with the established Stakeholder Forum to confirm prioritised elements, finalise costing on these elements, confirm the development lead, as well as facilitate budget mobilisation processes and statutory planning processes to implement the project.

(b) Total Amount Budgeted for Vilakazi Street: R442 925.00

(c) (i) Vilakazi Street spend in the past three financial years and (ii) since 1 January 2022

(i) 2019-2020	(i) 2020-2021	(i) 2021-2022	(ii) since 1 January 2022
Non-financial support	Non-financial support	R442 925.00	R243 608.75

(d) How was the money spent?

The scope of the project entailed the development of three (3) sets of architectural solutions for the Canopy/Structure/Shelter for informal traders, public/street market square/space, including restaurant in 2021/2022.

(bb) Lilies Leaf Farm

(a) i) and (ii) The Department of Tourism is not involved.

(b) No budget has been allocated to Liliesleaf.

(c) (i) and (ii) Not applicable

(d) Not Applicable

Reply:

a) The Department, worked with KwaZulu-Natal to undertake preliminary assessment of the damages to tourism facilities. In this regard, the Eastern Cape had indicated that it had the requisite capacity to undertake such assessments through the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Board. The North West Province indicated that neither public nor private tourism facilities were affected. Upon conclusion of the preliminary assessments, the Department has provided support for technical professional assessments of the required technical work and associated costs that will inform the actual interventions and responsibilities between the parties.

b) From engagements with stakeholders, it was determined that there has not been a fundamental disruption of private sector tourism facilities in both Provinces. Affected businesses have indicated that they are covered by insurance, and in the main want the speedy restoration of affected bulk infrastructure. In light of this, no separate interventions were required from the Department.

Reply:

1. First case is case number: 39031/16 – Service Provider failed to comply with procurement prescripts and as such the Department could not proceed with the Service Level Agreement

a) The nature of the litigation:

1.1  This is a claim for contractual damages amounting to R41 040.00, following conclusion of a Service Level Agreement by the Department and the Service Provider (Plaintiff) on 21 August 2015, for procurement of goods and services.

1.2 The Plaintiff did not comply with pertinent procurement prescripts including Supply Chain Management Policy, Supply Chain Management Guide for Accounting Officers/Authorities, Public Finance Management Act, 1999 and Treasury Regulations, which provide for, amongst others, the registration of suppliers on the Central Supplier Database system. Thus, the Department could not proceed with an agreement which contradicted applicable procurement prescripts, hence this lawsuit, which the Department is defending.

(b) Commencement date: Legal action commenced on 17 October 2016.

(c) Outcome: Litigation is proceeding.

2. Second case is case number: 15206/21 – Service Provider claims 10% retention fee and administration costs whereas retention fee and administration costs are covered under management fee in the signed Service Level Agreement

a) The nature of the litigation:

2.1 This case emanated from a Service Level Agreement concluded between the Department and the Service Provider (Plaintiff) on 4 June 2018, for training of unemployed youth on National Certificate in Fast Food Services (NQF level 3) and placement of the training graduates in various hospitality establishments in Limpopo province, for experiential learning, for the duration of the project. The Department would in return pay, amongst others, management fee.

2.2 The Plaintiff is claiming payment of R246 675.00 which is 10% retention fee and R825 700.00 for administration of stipends, quarterly attendance registers and annual financial statement. The Department is defending this action on the basis that the management fee agreed to by the Department and the Plaintiff in the signed Service Level Agreement, covers retention fee and administration costs.

(b) Commencement date: Legal action commenced on 15 April 2021.

(c) Outcome: Litigation is proceeding.

Reply:

Upon conclusion of the forensic investigation, the Board identified individuals implicated in the report and investigation. In line with the organisations’ internal processes as well as Disciplinary Code and Procedure, the Board and respective line managers wrote to the implicated parties who then had to submit representations in response to the allegations levelled against them as per the forensic investigation report.

Allegations against all implicated parties were done on a case-by-case basis where each individual had to submit their representations on their part in the matter. Representations were considered on an individual basis based on the severity of the allegations and level of involvement in the matter.

Once representations were received, consequence management action was effected on some officials and continuing with respect to others.

Reply:

As indicated in the response to question 2568 of 2021 this project is led at a provincial level working with local government. The Department of Tourism is not familiar with the stated estimation of R109 million for the restoration of the site. It is suggested that the Honourable Member addresses the inquiry about the R109 million to the responsible local authority.

Reply:

1. (a) A total of R 47 884 114 was spent on this project. Of this, R 36 184 114 was spent on construction and R 11 700 00 was spent on creating employment opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and transport of EPWP workers.

(b) From the EPWP budget allocation

(c) The Honourable Member is advised to make a request in line with the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA), Act No. 2 of 2000.

(2) Yes. The project was advertised in 2011 and Implementing Agent appointed in the same year.

(3) The handover of the project was not done because the project was not completed.

(4) A case has been opened with SAPS, State Attorney was instructed to recover the loses and implicated officials were charged.

 

 

Reply:

The management of Durban Beaches is the responsibility of the eThekwini Municipality as the relevant Local Authority. In the event that the Honourable member wishes to obtain information on such matters, it would only be prudent for the member to directly engage with the relevant Local Authority.

 

Reply:

(1) (a) (i) Hybrid working arrangements have been withdrawn for all employees including employees with co-morbidities (now handled in line with standard sick leave procedures as per DPSA circular 38/2022).

(ii) N/A

(iii) N/A

(b) N/A

(2) N/A