Questions and Replies
07 August 2024 - NW120
Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of Tourism
What is the total number of tourists who visited the Republic from (a) Brazil, (b) Argentina, (c) Russia, (d) India, (e) China, (f) Taiwan, (g) Iran, (h) United States of America, (i) United Kingdom and (j) Germany in the past three years?
Reply:
The total number of tourists who visited the Republic from the following countries |
2021-2022 Financial Year |
2022-2023 Financial Year |
2023-2024 Financial Year |
(a) Brazil |
6 871 |
17 458 |
33 087 |
(b) Argentina |
913 |
3 178 |
4 320 |
(c) Russia |
11 808 |
21 481 |
29 173 |
(d) India |
22 302 |
64 100 |
79 628 |
(e) China |
7 024 |
16 373 |
42 082 |
(f) Taiwan |
895 |
2 142 |
3 808 |
(g) Iran |
797 |
2 160 |
2 985 |
(h) United States of America |
111 159 |
306 351 |
357 490 |
(i) United Kingdom |
107 299 |
336 191 |
362 462 |
(j) Germany |
81 978 |
220 699 |
254 132 |
(Source: Stats SA)
END
____________________
Ms Patricia de Lillle, MP
Minister of Tourism
Date: 7 August 2024
07 August 2024 - NW119
Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) What is the current status of the historic Ratelrivier Estate that was restored at great cost as a potentially lucrative tourist attraction in the Cape Agulhas National Park? (2) Whether issues and complaints pertaining to concession holders in the Cape AgulhasNational Park have been properly investigated; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Department of Tourism had no role or involvement in the Ratelrivier Estate Project. The Honourable Member is requested to refer this question to the relevant entity, South African National Parks.
END
____________________
Ms Patricia de Lillle, MP
Minister of Tourism
Date: 7 August 2024
07 August 2024 - NW118
Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) are the full relevant details of the (i) role and (ii) purpose of the various buildings being constructed in the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse Precinct Project, (b) is the total cost of the development and (c) is the envisaged date of completion?
Reply:
a) What are the (i) role and (ii) purpose of the various buildings being constructed in the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse Precinct Project?
- Investment in destination development to attract more tourists.
- Outlined below is the scope of the construction work for the current project:
- A restaurant;
- An Interpretation Centre which includes vendor stalls, ablution facilities, curio shops, a booking office and a lecture theatre;
- Reception area and offices;
- External works and bulk infrastructure;
- In addition to the construction work, the project budget makes provision for furniture
(b) What is the total cost of the development? The total project budget is R 54 million.
(c) What is the envisaged date of completion? It is estimated the work will be complete by 30 September 2024
END
____________________
Ms Patricia de Lillle, MP
Minister of Tourism
Date: 7 August 2024
05 April 2024 - NW741
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Tourism
Considering the importance of business and medical tourism, what plans does her department have in place to enhance infrastructure and services catering for these segments of the market, thus ensuring the Republic remains competitive as a destination for various purposes?
Reply:
I have been informed by the Department that the approach to Medical Tourism is that practitioners who want to participate in this niche are free to do so. However, government does not actively promote or market South Africa as a destination for this purpose. This is based on the levels of potential risks of litigation associated with the field.
As far as the infrastructure for medical tourism concerned, that is the responsibility of the practitioners in the sector.
I have, further, been informed by South African Tourism (SA Tourism) that the medical sector is a key priority for the South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) to bid for international and regional conferences. The SANCB works closely with associations, federations and societies in the Medical sector to bid for international and regional meetings to be hosted in South Africa.
The role of the South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) is to create demand for international and regional conferences to be hosted in South Africa and to bid to host these conferences in South Africa. SANCB works with the private sector, like convention centres, to bid for these conferences.
In terms of infrastructure for business tourism purposes some of the community-based projects that the department is involved with, and where feasible has an element of business tourism infrastructure in the form of event and/or conference venues.
05 April 2024 - NW731
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether the Government has any plans to refurbish the Mphephu Resort to revive the tourism economy of the Vhembe Region in Limpopo; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I have been informed that the Department of Tourism does not have Mphephu Resort as one of its projects. The resort belongs to the Limpopo Provincial Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism.
The Honourable member, may direct the enquiry to the Provincial authorities in this regard.
05 April 2024 - NW738
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
What total amount did her department spend on the commission of the (a) SNG Grant Thornton and (b) TFS Africa forensic investigations?
Reply:
a) I have been informed by the Department that the Department spent R 778 789.86 for the SNG Grant Thornton investigation, and
b) R 232 921.00 for the TFS Africa investigation.
22 March 2024 - NW570
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) Whether, with reference to the Auditor-General’s report of 2019 which highlighted that at least 14 infrastructure projects under her department had significant challenges and recommended a forensic investigation on them, she will furnish Ms H Ismail with a detailed list of these 14 infrastructure projects highlighted by the Auditor-General of South Africa; (2) (a) Who were the officials presiding over the infrastructure projects that were under her department during the 2019 period and (b) what were the (i) original project values per project and (ii) reasons for the variance between the fair value and expenditure incurred per project?
Reply:
1. Detailed list of the 14 infrastructure projects recommended for a forensic investigation as highlighted by the Auditor-General’s report of 2019
|
Project |
1 |
Rock Art Tourism Phase 2, Eastern cape |
2 |
Building of a Guest House 1 & 2, Free State |
3 |
Sentinel Peal Car Access, Free State |
4 |
Mnisi, Limpopo |
5 |
VhaTsonga 1 & 2, Limpopo |
6 |
Kamiesburg, Northern Cape |
7 |
Nyandeni, Eastern Cape |
8 |
Mthonsi Lodge, eastern cape |
9 |
Qatywa, Eastern cape |
10 |
Six Day Hiking Trail, Eastern Cape |
11 |
Muzi Pan, Kwazulu-Natal |
12 |
Sekhukhune, Limpopo |
13 |
Tisane, Limpopo |
14 |
Manyane Lodge, North West |
(2)(a) Who were the officials presiding over the infrastructure projects that were under her department during the 2019 period?
Ms Morongoa Ramphela - DDG
Ms Lerato Matlakala – Chief Director
Mr Jonga Kuhlane – Director
Mr Thulani Sibeko – Director
Ms Mbali Zama - Director
Mr Thulani Mhlanga – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Ms Lufuno Netangaheni – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Mr Mandisi Mququ – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Mr Brandon Canham – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Ms Sandra Mocumi – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Mr Godukile Mbolekwa – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
Ms Nonkululeko Madela – Deputy Director (Project Manager)
(2)(b)(i) What were the original project values per project?
|
Project |
Budget |
1 |
EC Rock Art Tourism Phase 2 |
R 4,750,000 |
2 |
FS Building of a Guest House 1 & 2 |
R 34,234,974 |
3 |
FS Sentinel Peal Car Access |
R 11,432,622 |
4 |
LP Mnisi |
R 10,940,000 |
5 |
LP VhaTsonga 1 & 2 |
R 9,185,000 |
6 |
NC Kamiesburg |
R 5,100,000 |
7 |
EC Nyandeni |
R 7,600,000 |
8 |
EC Mthonsi Lodge |
R 28,215,000 |
9 |
EC Qatywa |
R 23,750,000 |
10 |
EC Six Day Hiking Trail |
R 9,405,000 |
11 |
KZN Muzi Pan |
R 12,447,480 |
12 |
LP Sekhukhune |
R 10,622,500 |
13 |
LP Tisane |
R 18,227,174 |
14 |
NW Manyane |
R 48,465,113 |
(2)(b)(ii) What were the reasons for the variance between the fair value and expenditure incurred per project?
The reasons as per the AGSA findings include:
- Payments made to implementer for work not fully done;
- Ineffective identification, scoping and sourcing of projects;
- Scope of work changes not evaluated and pre-approve;
- Reports on Work-in-Progress were not reliable; and
- Poor quality of work.
22 March 2024 - NW611
Le Goff, Mr T to ask the Minister of Tourism
With reference to the reply of the former Minister to question 96 on 28 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by her department for (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
i) Former Minister Mmamoloko ‘Nkensani’ Kubayi, 01 June 2019- 05 August 2021, used vehicles purchased by the Department in 2013 until the purchase of new vehicles in 2020.
07 June 2020- 5 August 2021 |
07 June 2020 – 5 August 2021 |
|
a) Make |
VOLVO BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
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 |
2020/06/07 |
2020/06/07 |
01 June 2019 – 7 June 2020 |
01 June 2019 – 7 June 2020 |
|
f) Make |
Mercedes Benz BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
Mercedes Benz BASED IN PRETORIA |
g) Model |
GL 350 Blue Tech |
GL 350 Blue Tech |
h) Year of manufacture |
2013 |
2013 |
i) Cost |
R951 626.90 |
R951 626.90 |
j) Purchase date |
2013 |
2013 |
ii) Former Minister Lindiwe Nonceba Sisulu, 05 August 2021 – 06 March 2023, used the same vehicles purchased by the Department in 2020.
05 August 2021– 06 March 2023 |
05 August 2021– 06 March 2023 |
|
k) Make |
VOLVO BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
VOLVO BASED IN PRETORIA |
l) Model |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
m) Year of manufacture |
2020 |
2020 |
n) Cost |
R700 000.00 |
R700 000.00 |
o) Purchase date |
2020/06/07 |
2020/06/07 |
iii) Minister Patricia De Lille, 2023 – to date has continued to use the same vehicles purchased by the Department in 2020.
06 March 2023 to date |
06 March 2023 to date |
|
p) Make |
VOLVO BASED IN CAPE TOWN |
VOLVO BASED IN PRETORIA |
q) Model |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
XC60 D4 AWD G/T INSCRIPTION |
r) Year of manufacture |
2020 |
2020 |
s) Cost |
R700 000.00 |
R700 000.00 |
t) Purchase date |
2020/06/07 |
2020/06/07 |
ii Deputy Minister Fish Amos Mahlalela (29 May 2019 – to date)
18 May 2021- to date |
18 May 2021- to date |
|
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 |
2021/03/18 |
2021/03/18 |
8 May 2019 – 18 May 2021 |
8 May 2019 – 18 May 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 |
2015/03/18 |
22 March 2024 - NW572
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) Whether, with reference to the Auditor-General’s report of 2019 which highlighted that at least 14 infrastructure projects under her department had significant challenges, she will furnish Ms H Ismail with a list of the contractors appointed to the projects; if not, why not; if so, by what date does she envisage doing so; (2) Whether any of the contractors appointed have been red flagged for future appointments; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, that are the further, relevant details?
Reply:
1. Will the Minister furnish Ms H Ismail with a list of the contractors appointed to the projects; if not, why not; if so, by what date does she envisage doing so?
|
Project |
Implementing Agent |
1 |
EC Rock Art Tourism Phase 2 |
African Implementation Management Services Pty Ltd |
2 |
FS Building of a Guest House 1 & 2 |
Phase 1: Nambo Property & Project Manager cc t/a Nombo Mabhele Phase 2: River Ranger Management |
3 |
FS Sentinel Peal Car Access |
Hentig 2715 (Pty) Ltd |
4 |
LP Mnisi |
African Implementation Management Services Pty Ltd |
5 |
LP VhaTsonga 1 & 2 |
African Implementation Management Services Pty Ltd |
6 |
NC Kamiesburg |
Ishabi Pty Ltd |
7 |
EC Nyandeni |
Nyandeni Development Trust |
8 |
EC Mthonsi Lodge |
MBB Consulting Services |
9 |
EC Qatywa |
Makhanyeni Housing Estate (Pty) Ltd |
10 |
EC Six Day Hiking Trail |
Simply Indigenous cc |
11 |
KZN Muzi Pan |
Rich Rewards Trading 34 (PTY) Ltd | Reg No: 2003/022344/07 T / A Sigma International |
12 |
LP Sekhukhune |
Mabhucu Construction Suppliers Cc |
13 |
LP Tisane |
Baitsenape Investments cc |
14 |
NW Manyane |
Re A Aga Infrastructure (Pty) Ltd |
2. Whether any of the contractors appointed have been red flagged for future appointments; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the further, relevant details?
No contractor was red flagged; however, the matters have been reported to the police and civil litigation is being pursued through the Office of the State Attorney.
22 March 2024 - NW571
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) Whether, with reference to the Auditor-General’s report of 2019 which highlighted that at Least 14 infrastructure projects under her department had significant challenges, all variations/deviations incurred were properly authorised; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether there were any irregular activities in the management of the specified projects; ifso, what (a) are the relevant details of the irregularities, (b) consequence management measures were taken against officials who were responsible for overseeing and/or presiding over these projects and (c) are the specified measures; (3) Whether she will furnish Ms H Ismail with the basic account system payment reports on all projects from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2022; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Whether all variations/deviations incurred were properly authorized; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
I have been informed that the details are contained in the Annual Report of 2019 on the Department’s Website: https://www.tourism.gov.za/ResourceCentre/Pages/Reports.aspx
(2)(a) Whether there were any irregular activities in the management of the specified projects; if so, what are the relevant details of the irregularities?
Details of the findings are contained in the Annual Performance Report of 2018/ 2019 as well as in the Auditor General’s presentation to the Portfolio Committee on 8 October 2019.
https://www.tourism.gov.za/ResourceCentre/Pages/Reports.aspx.
(2)(b) and (2) (c) consequence management measures were taken against officials who were responsible for overseeing and/or residing over these projects and what are the specified measures;
(i) Disciplinary Process: Seven employees who were directly involved in the management of the projects were charged with gross financial misconduct and gross negligence. Two were not found guilty of the charges preferred against them. The Department has referred these cases to the Labour Court to review the ruling of the Chairperson of the disciplinary hearing. The parties, being the department represented by the State Attorney and the employees, represented by their lawyers are currently exchanging and the cases will be set down for hearing at the Labour Court in due course when pleading has closed.
(ii) Criminal Charges - The Department, following the provisions of the PFMA regarding allegations of financial misconduct, opened criminal cases with the South African Police Services (SAPS), against the implicated officials. SAPS investigations are currently underway.
(3) Will the Minister furnish Ms H Ismail with the basic account system payment reports on all projects from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2022; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
The Financial Reports and Audited Financial statements are contained in the Annual Report (s) on the department’s website.
https://www.tourism.gov.za/ResourceCentre/Pages/Reports.aspx
The Department’s Annual Performance Reports older than 2010 are available in Parliament’s Library and will be listed as the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.
22 March 2024 - NW721
Le Goff, Mr T to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether she will furnish Mr T A Le Goff with a (a) list and (b) full description of all events planned by her department to take place before 29 May 2024 in celebration of the 30 years of democracy in the Republic, including the (i) projected total cost or expenditure of each event and (ii) breakdown thereof in terms of expenditure for (aa) catering, (bb) entertainment, (cc) venue hire, (dd) transport and (ee) accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I am informed by the Department that no events are planned by the Department of Tourism, before the 29 May elections, to celebrate 30 years of democracy in the Republic of South Africa.
15 March 2024 - NW465
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) What (a) are the requirements set by her department for a person to qualify for appointment as a tour guide and (b) checks and balance mechanisms are in place to ensure that applicants processed by her department comply with the specified requirements; (2) Whether she will furnish Ms H Ismail with a copy of the application form used by her department; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) How are the tour guides monitored by her department to ensure the safety of the tourists in their excursions with the tour guides around the Republic?
Reply:
(1)(a) I have been informed that the Department of Tourism is not responsible for the appointment of tour guides. The appointment of tour guides is a provincial competency.
(1)(b) and (2) and (3) Not Applicable
15 March 2024 - NW464
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(a) What criterion is used by her department to appoint tour guides and (b) at what point does her department and the Department of Transport liaise before tour guides are appointed?
Reply:
(a) I have been informed that the Department is not responsible for the appointment of tourist guides. The appointment of tour guides is a provincial competency.
(b) Not applicable
06 March 2024 - NW369
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether there are currently any service providers who are still waiting for their payment after 30 days of providing services to SA Tourism; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) are the reasons behind the late payments and (b) is holding the specified entity from paying those service providers in time?
Reply:
Are there currently any service providers who are still waiting for their payment after
30 days of providing services to SA Tourism; if not, what is the position in this regard?
I have been informed that SA Tourism’s policy is to pay valid invoices within a period of 30 days. This is also monitored as deliverable in the approved Annual Performance Plan, and the entity has achieved 100% payment of valid invoices within 30 days in the previous reporting quarters.
If so, (a) What are the reasons behind the late payments?
In the instance where the supplier is not paid within 30 days, the invoice is placed on hold due to the invoice being non-compliant or there is a dispute with the supplier. The supplier is advised of the circumstances and once rectified the invoice is paid. This measure is in place to prevent any irregularities.
(b) What is holding the specified entity from paying those service providers in
time?
SA Tourism has on record paid suppliers within 30 days of receipt of the valid invoice. Where an invalid invoice or dispute exists, the invoice is placed on hold until the compliant invoice is received from the supplier.
06 March 2024 - NW350
Le Goff, Mr T to ask the Minister of Tourism
What are the full details of all (a) sponsorships, (b) donations and (c) financial transfers provided for lawfare and/or any other purposes to (i) her, (ii) her department and (iii) officials of her department by any (aa) Qatari, (bb) Iranian and/or (cc) Russian organ of state, organisation and/or resident since 1 January 2021 up to the latest date in 2024 for which information is available?
Reply:
(i) (a)-(c) I have been informed that Former Minister Sisulu went to Russia from 10- 13 July 2022. All costs were paid by the Department. According to Parliaments’ Register of Members’ Interest for 2021 and 2022, no sponsorships, donations or financial transfers were paid to her by any Qatari, Iranian and /or Russian organ of state, organization and/or resident since 1 January 2021 to 30 November 2022. (https://www.parliament.gov.za/register-members-Interests )
(ii) (a)–(c) According to Parliament’s Register of Members’ Interests for 2021,2022 and 2023, no sponsorships, donations or financial transfers were paid to Minister de Lille by any Qatari, Iranian and /or Russian organ of state, organization and/or resident since 1 January 2021 to date. (https://www.parliament.gov.za/register-members-Interests )
(iii) (a)–(c) The department did not receive any sponsorships, donations or financial transfers from Qatari, Iranian and /or Russian organ of state, organization and/or resident since 1 January 2021 to date.
(iv) (a)-(c) I am also informed that the Department is not aware of any sponsorships or donations to officials from the Department of Tourism by any Qatari, Iranian and /or Russian organ of state, organization and/or resident since 1 January 2021 to date.
06 March 2024 - NW368
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
(a) On what specific date will the SA Tourism Board be appointed and (b) what are the full, relevant details of the time frames that her department has put in place for the appointment process of the Board?
Reply:
(a) On what specific date will the SA Tourism Board be appointed?
On Wednesday 28 February 2024, Cabinet approved the appointment of the full Board of SA Tourism. The appointments are in the process of being gazetted.
(b) What are the full, relevant details of the time frames that her department has put in place for the appointment process of the Board?
Cabinet approved the appointments on 28 February 2024. The appointments will be gazetted by mid-March 2024.
06 March 2024 - NW370
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) total amount did SA Tourism spend on the 2023 Summer Campaign and (b) amount of the budget was spent on the activation programmes of the specified campaign and (c) total number of jobs were created during activation programmes of the 2023 Summer Campaign compared to the 2022 Summer Campaign?
Reply:
(a) What total amount did SA Tourism spend on the 2023 Summer Campaign?
I have been informed that South African Tourism spent R6 861 415.28 on the 2023 Summer Campaign activations.
(b) What amount of the budget was spent on the activation programmes of the
specified campaign?
R6 861 415.28 was spent on the activation which included branding, sustainability village for arts & craft SMME exhibition and the youth activation teams at each activation in the eight participating provinces.
(c) What total number of jobs were created during activation programmes of the 2023
Summer Campaign compared to the 2022 Summer Campaign?
Overall, the economic impact for the campaign was that over 359 jobs, through the activation’s recruitment of temporary workers, were created or sustained over 3 weeks.
For the 2022 Summer Campaign, 1350 jobs were created over 32 days across all 9 Provinces. This was done at an activation cost of R 20 465 016.00,00 million. It must be noted that the budget for executing the 2023 activation was significantly reduced to fund efficiencies and manage costs.
SA TOURISM BUDGET LIMITATION
The delay in the transfer of funds to SA Tourism created a challenge to plan for a larger commitment to activations and youth employment. This led to SA Tourism having to develop a plan that could leverage the Summer campaign given the financial circumstances. This plan focused on economic growth, and included a combination of leveraging existing Provincial Tourism events, youth employment through activations, and creating SMME market access opportunities.
The first activation commenced on the 14 of December 2023. It must be noted that SA Tourism funds were transferred on 13 December 2023 and therefore this impacted the scale of the activation.
21 December 2023 - NW4177
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) total amount has been budgeted and/or allocated for the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (i) in each month in the past three financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2023 to date, (b)(i) processes, procedures and/or reporting mechanisms are in place to ensure and monitor that the funds are properly spent and (c) amount has been spent in each month in the specified period?
Reply:
I have been informed that the Department of Tourism has not had a budget line item for transfers to the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) for the financial years 2020/21 to 2023/24 and has not made any transfers to TBCSA in that period.
SA Tourism does not allocate budget for the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) as they have their own budget as the administrators of the Tourism Marketing South Africa (TOMSA) levy.
21 December 2023 - NW4046
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1)With reference to the seizure of South African Tourism’s assets, (a)(i) when and (ii) where did the seizure take place; (2) What assets (a) were seized and (b) are being utilised in place of the seized assets; (3) What (a) was the value of the assets seized (b) were the reasons for the seizure; (4) Whether legal action has been initiated in this regard; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW5322E
Reply:
(1)(a)(i) - When did it take place?
I have been informed by South Africa Tourism that, regarding the inquiry concerning the acquisition of assets belonging to South African Tourism, it is imperative to clarify that it was not a seizure but rather a retrieval of assets. Specifically, the laptops in question are the rightful property of SA Tourism and do not constitute the personal assets of the individuals who were instructed to surrender their laptops for the purpose of data preservation. This procedural action transpired on Thursday, July 6, 2023.
(1)(a)(ii) - Where did it take place?
At the SA Tourism Johannesburg office, located in Bojanala House, 90 Protea Road, Chislehurston, Johannesburg, 2196.
(2)(a) - What assets were seized?
NO |
LAPTOP/DESKTOP |
MAKE |
COLLECTION LOCATION |
DATA COLLECTED |
DATE RETURNED |
1 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5520 |
SIU OFFICES DELIVERED BY SAT |
10-Jul-23 |
11-Jul-23 |
2 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5520 |
SIU OFFICES DELIVERED BY SAT |
10-Jul-23 |
11-Jul-23 |
3 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5520 |
SIU OFFICES DELIVERED BY SAT |
07-Jul-23 |
10-Jul-23 |
4 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5520 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
10-Jul-23 |
5 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5520 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
10-Jul-23 |
6 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 7300 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
10-Jul-23 |
7 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 7290 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
10-Jul-23 |
8 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 7300 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
07-Jul-23 |
9 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5300 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
07-Jul-23 |
10 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 7290 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
07-Jul-23 |
11 |
LAPTOP |
DELL XPS |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
07-Jul-23 |
12 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5520 |
SAT |
06-Jul-23 |
07-Jul-23 |
13 |
LAPTOP |
DELL LATITUDE 5430 |
SAT |
06-Sep-23 |
08-Sep-23 |
(2)(b) - What are being used in place of the seized assets?
Individual laptops were returned as per the Table above. The focus remained on expediting the return of laptops to individuals in the minimum amount of time.
(3)(a) - Value of the seized assets?
The average value of laptops taken is approximately R 21 000, therefore the total average value was approximately R 252,000 at the time of collection for data preservation purposes.
(3)(b) - Reason for the seizure?
The assets were collected for the preservation of data to ensure that all information necessary to the investigation was secured and available to the investigators.
(4) - Whether legal action has been initiated?
The event was not a seizure but a collection of assets which already belonged to SA Tourism, not the individuals who were asked to hand them in for data preservation purposes. The assets that were collected are the property of SAT as an employer and were not seized from anyone. Officials were requested to temporarily hand in SAT property. No legal action has been initiated, and the SIU employees seconded to the agency continue their investigations.
21 December 2023 - NW3766
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
With reference to projects undertaken by the SA Tourism in the past three financial years and since 1 April 2023 up to the latest specified date for which information is available, (a) who undertook each project in each month, (b) how were the project suppliers identified and (c) what was the (i) budget allocation for each project and (iv) actual expenditure in each case?
Reply:
The projects, initiated by SA Tourism in the past three financial years, are as captured in the Annual Performance Plans and the relevant implementation reports have been presented to the Portfolio Committee.
The reports can also be accessed on the Parliamentary Monitoring Group (PMG) website.
21 December 2023 - NW3887
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
With regard to the top leadership and management at the levels of (a) Director-General and (b) Deputy Director-General in SA Tourism, (i) what qualifications does each of the specified persons have in each case and (ii) how do the specified qualifications align with the position that must be fulfilled?
Reply:
I have been informed by SA Tourism that the details regarding qualifications of top management are contained in the table below.
With regard to the top leadership and management in SAT |
(i) What qualifications does each of the specified persons have in each case |
(ii) How do the specified qualifications align with the position that must be fulfilled |
(a) Chief Executive Officer |
The CEO role is currently vacant and recruitment is in progress. The acting incumbent has been appointed by the Board to carry the delegation of CEO to allow for business continuity. |
The requirements for the Chief Executive Officer are the following:
|
(b) Chief Finance Officer |
- Bachelor degree in Accounting; - Bachelor Honours degree in Accounting; and (CA) SA |
The requirements for the Chief Finance Officer are the following:
The qualifications the incumbent possesses, coupled by their work experience align them to the position fulfilled. |
(c) Chief Operations Officer |
- Bachelor of Social Science - GIBS Executive Leadership Development Programme; |
The requirements for the Chief Operations Officer are the following:
The panel at the time of recruitment considered the candidate's experience and knowledge and concluded that it is aligned with job requirements which led to the decision to hire the candidate. |
(d) Chief Quality Assurance Officer |
- BCom Marketing Degree - Professional Management Development programme -GIBS - MASA Diploma in Media Management. |
- A Three-year Commerce degree (major in Marketing would be preferred) - A postgraduate or Master’s Degree in PR/Hospitality/Sales & Marketing/Travel & Tourism Management or equivalent. - 8-10 years in Senior Operations and/or Marketing and Sales Management experience or a related field, of which 5 years should be in management position. - Experience in Hospitality Product / Business Development, Destination and/or product knowledge. The qualifications the incumbent possesses, coupled by their work experience align them to the position fulfilled. |
e) Chief Marketing Officer |
The CMO role is currently vacant and recruitment is in progress. The acting incumbent has been appointed to carry the delegation of CEO to allow for business continuity. |
|
f) Chief Convention Bureau Officer |
The CCBO role is currently vacant and recruitment is in progress. The acting incumbent has been appointed to carry the delegation of CEO to allow for business continuity. |
|
g) Chief Strategy Officer |
Vacant |
- Extensive knowledge of international and domestic travel • Knowledge and understanding of the principles of business, the application thereof, the opportunities within business and the seizure of such opportunities • Knowledge and understanding of research methodology and principles critical in deriving intel that is reliable and integral • Excellent understanding of marketing principles, especially business events. Understanding general data management policies and procedures. • Ability to implement and follow governance and compliance procedures. Previous experience in managing an Analytics/ Research Department is essential |
21 December 2023 - NW3910
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) type of critical skills shortages are there in the tourism sector institutions that report to her and (b) is the detailed report on the number of critical skills currently short in her department?
Reply:
(a) The type of critical skills shortages within the tourism sector institutions are:
- Financial Management
- Strategic Leadership
- Food Safety Quality Assurance
- Travel consulting
- Professional Cookery
- Tourism Information Officers
- Work Readiness and placement
- Occupational Health Norms and Standards
- Career Development
- Service Excellence
- Digitalisation Skills
I have, further, been informed that the above critical skills are informed by the existing Skills Audit Report and Tourism Sector Human Resources Development Strategy 2017 – 2027.
(b) The department experiences high turnover is some skills while unable to recruit and retain adequately skilled persons, at the same level as the level of loss, in the following areas:
- Supply Chain Management Skills
- Risk Management (Business Continuity Management Skills)
- Information and Communication Technology Skills
- Geographic Information System
- Graphic Designers
The department has also resolved to strengthen existing capacity on the management of Infrastructure Projects through augmenting the following skills:
- Construction Project Managers
- Quantity Surveyors
21 December 2023 - NW4045
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1)With reference to forensic audits undertaken by South African Tourism in the last three financial years and since 1 April 2023 to date, (a) which audits have been (i) each per month, (ii) concluded per month, and (b) what was the value of each of the audits in each instance respectively; (2) What was the nature of each audit in each instance respectively; (3) Who conducted the audits in each instance respectively; (4) What was the outcome of each audit in each instance respectively?
Reply:
Forensic Audits 2020-2021 |
||||
(1)(a)(i+ii) Which audits have been concluded per month |
(1)(b) What was the value of each audit |
(2) What was the nature of each audit |
(3) Who conducted each audit |
(4) What was the outcome of each audit |
N/A |
R0 |
General complaint received 24 Feb 2020 |
Independent Forensic Investigators |
Closed |
N/A |
R0 |
Unethical conduct complaint received 22 July 2020 |
Independent Forensic Investigators |
Closed |
Forensic Audits 2021-2022 |
||||
(1)(a)(i+ii) Which audits have been concluded per month |
(1)(b) What was the value of each audit |
(2) What was the nature of each audit |
(3) Who conducted each audit |
(4) What was the outcome of each audit |
From 1 January 2022, three investigations were undertaken. Two investigations were received in May 2022 through the Hotline and one was a direct call from the whistle-blower received in June 2022. |
R0 R0 The Direct Call R89 000 |
Unethical Conduct Unethical Conduct Payment of invoices without work done |
All investigations are conducted by independent forensic investigators that are sourced through supply chain management processes. |
The process was underway to conclude the three investigations in the FY 2022-2023 table. |
Forensic Audits 2022-2023 |
||||
(1)(a)(i+ii) Which audits have been concluded per month |
(1)(b) What was the value of each audit |
(2) What was the nature of each audit |
(3) Who conducted each audit |
(4) What was the outcome of each audit |
N/A |
R0 |
Unethical Conduct |
SIU |
Irregularities were identified. Matter still underway. |
N/A |
R0 |
Unethical Conduct |
SIU |
Allegations partly confirmed. Matter still underway. |
N/A |
R390 195 |
Bribery/Corruption |
Forensic Investigators (Outsourced) |
Improper conduct and misrepresentation on the part of certain officials identified. Matter still underway. |
N/A |
R0 |
Misconduct |
Human Capital |
False allegations identified. |
N/A |
R0 |
Misconduct(duplicate of 10) |
Human Capital |
False allegations identified. |
N/A |
R89 000 |
Payment of invoices without work done |
The preliminary investigation was done by forensic investigators (Outsourced) |
Referred to SIU for full investigation. Matter still underway. |
Forensic Audits since 1 April 2023 |
||||
(1)(a)(i+ii) Which audits have been concluded |
(1)(b) What was the value of each audit |
(2) What was the nature of each audit |
(3) Who conducted each audit |
(4) What was the outcome of each audit |
N/A |
Pending |
Corruption |
SIU |
In progress |
N/A |
Pending |
Corruption |
SIU |
In progress |
N/A |
Pending |
Investigation |
Pending |
In progress |
18 September 2023 |
Pending |
Suspected scam |
SIU |
In progress |
04 October 2023 |
Pending |
Complaint on HC process |
SIU |
In progress |
21 December 2023 - NW4102
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
What are the details of SA Tourism will do differently in the implementation of the Tourism Sector Masterplan against the strategies developed to implement the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan?
Reply:
The Tourism Sector Masterplan which was approved by Cabinet in October 2023 was derived from, among others, the three-year Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (TSRP), approved by the Cabinet in April 2021.
The plan primarily aims to galvanise government, industry, and labour to collectively share a common vision that will position the tourism industry on an inclusive and sustainable competitive path for the benefit of all South Africans.
The Masterplan is anchored on three interlinked pillars or strategic themes:
- Protect and Rejuvenating Supply;
- Re-ignite Demand;
- Strengthen Enabling Capability for long-term sustainability.
Within these pillars, there are seven Strategic Interventions that address key areas of focus.
These interventions include enhancing education and skills development, promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth, improving infrastructure and connectivity, fostering social cohesion and well-being, preserving the environment and natural resources, strengthening governance and institutions, and promoting regional cooperation.
Additionally, there are three enablers that support the implementation of the plan, namely, to form targeted, strategic partnerships between government and industry; partnering with relevant departments to ensure improved travel facilitation through the implementation of e-visas, tourist safety, airlift capacity and quicker turnaround times in the processing of tour operator licences; and stimulate domestic demand through Government Consumption expenditure.
The plan indicates that South African Tourism is the lead partner in destination marketing of South Africa as a key destination and the entity will continue leading in the stimulation of demand in collaboration with the industry and provinces through the following programmes:
- Targeted domestic initiatives and campaigns through domestic tourism seasonal campaigns.
- Domestic business events and B2B campaigns.
- Regional tourism campaigns to increase the number of tourists from the continent/region.
- A global marketing campaign targeted at high-value source markets.
- A global business events campaign to drive an increase in the number of events and business events hosted in SA.
- Drive the number of international bid submissions.
- Facilitation through the National Association Project to host Business events in VTSDs.
- Drive the growth in the number of quality-assured establishments.
- Confirming and implementing the brand management protocol.
21 December 2023 - NW4103
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
What is the implementation interface between the Tourism Sector Masterplan and the National Tourism Sector Strategy 2016-2026 with regard to the SA Tourism plans; (2) Whether SA Tourism has developed audit action plans to deal with financial management and the cash flow challenges; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) Whether SA Tourism has started to develop a business optimisation strategy; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) What measures has SA Tourism put in place to achieve its employment equity targets with the current moratorium in place?
Reply:
- What is the implementation interface between the Tourism Sector Masterplan and the National Tourism Sector Strategy 2016-2026 with regard to the SA Tourism plans?
The Tourism Sector Masterplan (TSMP) was approved by Cabinet in October 2023.
It was derived from, among others, the three-year Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (TSRP), which comprises interventions that extend beyond its immediate implementation time period of 2023–2024 and was approved by the Cabinet in April 2021.
The plan primarily aims to galvanise government, industry and labour to collectively share a common vision that will position the tourism industry on an inclusive and sustainable competitive path for the benefit of all South Africans.
The Masterplan is anchored on three interlinked pillars or strategic themes:
- Protect and Rejuvenating Supply;
- Re-ignite Demand;
- Strengthen Enabling Capability for long-term sustainability.
Within these pillars, there are seven Strategic Interventions that address key areas of focus. These interventions include enhancing education and skills development, promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth, improving infrastructure and connectivity, fostering social cohesion and well-being, preserving the environment and natural resources, strengthening governance and institutions, and promoting regional cooperation.
Additionally, there are three Enablers that support the implementation of the plan, namely, to form targeted, strategic partnerships between government and industry; partnering with relevant departments to ensure improved travel facilitation through the implementation of e-visas, tourist safety, airlift capacity and quicker turnaround times in the processing of tour operator licences; and stimulate domestic demand through Government Consumption expenditure.
The plan indicates that South African Tourism is the lead partner in destination marketing of South Africa as a key destination and the entity will continue leading in the stimulation of demand in collaboration with the industry and provinces through the following programmes:
- Targeted domestic initiatives and campaigns through domestic tourism seasonal campaigns.
- Domestic business events and B2B campaigns.
- Regional tourism campaigns to increase the number of tourists from the continent/region.
- A global marketing campaign targeted at high-value source markets.
- A global business events campaign to drive an increase in the number of events and business events hosted in SA.
- Drive the number of international bid submissions.
- Facilitation through the National Association Project to host Business events in VTSDs.
- Drive the growth in the number of quality-assured establishments.
- Confirming and implementing the brand management protocol.
SA Tourism is the lead on the Effective Marketing Pillar of the NTSS, which is aligned to the strategic interventions of the Tourism Master Plan. The effective marketing is done through engagement with tourism bodies and provinces through a coordinated approach.
(2) Whether SA Tourism has developed audit action plans to deal with financial management and cash flow challenges; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
With regard to audit action plans; for the current financial year South African Tourism has compiled an audit action plan resulting from findings by the Auditor General and Internal Audit services. The plan is monitored on a monthly basis by internal audit to ensure implementation by management. Moreover, SAT has set up an “operation clean audit committee” comprising various business unit managers to ensure that compliance and financial management is achieved throughout the organisation.
Stringent cashflow management is in place given the current cashflow challenges. Controls are to monitor cash flow daily and report more frequently. Measures also include deferring non-urgent payment and transfer of funds to the international office been rationed to transfer only what is required on a monthly basis.
3. Whether SA Tourism has started to develop a business optimisation strategy; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
The budget optimisation strategy which was identified as a deliverable in the approved Annual Performance Plan, is at an advanced stage of development. A change in the approach to strategy development in the beginning of the financial year, and extensive work required in research and benchmarking has resulted in delays in the targeted dates. However, management will ensure that sufficient progress is achieved at the end of quarter 3.
4) What measures has SA Tourism put in place to achieve its employment equity targets with the current moratorium in place?
Two targets have not been met during the period, namely Women in Senior management positions and employment of person with disabilities.
1. Ordinarily the action would be to identify roles for purposes of meeting the Employment Equity targets as part of recruitment planning.
2. Persons with disabilities were prioritised through the recruitment of interns with disabilities, as well as awareness sessions and management training on reasonable accommodation.
21 December 2023 - NW4127
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) has been the progress on the implementation of the summer campaign and (b) total number of jobs does she envisage to create from the summer campaign this year?
Reply:
ACTIVATIONS AND AMPLIFICATION OF THE CAMPAIGN:
I have been informed by SA Tourism that the plan for a summer campaign activation has been approved for implementation during the weekends of December 15-17 and 22-24. The objective is to establish a platform for South Africans to engage in the Tourism Economy while also generating excitement among the public through a diverse range of tourism products and experiences.
The roll out includes the following activities:
- Out of Home Campaign - running since October 2023
-
- SMME Showcase platforms at main route oasis + Festivals through the Sustainability Village platform.
- Gimme Summer Amplification of PTA summer campaign activations (2 per province)
- Amplification of the activations through SAT owned social media channels.
-
(b) total number of jobs does she envisage to create from the summer campaign this year?
SA Tourism uses the “Summer Army” in the activation across all nine provinces. SA Tourism will receive the final job creation figures at the end of the summer campaign.
21 December 2023 - NW4128
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
(a) By what date will the SA Tourism Board be appointed, (b) what are the reasons for the many delays and (c) what time frames have been put in place in this regard?
Reply:
(a and c)The time allocated in Cabinet for concurrence is as follows:
- Present to ESIEID Cabinet Committee on 7 February 2024
- Cabinet approval on 14 February 2024.
- Gazette on 23 February 2024.
(b) I was hoping to get this matter onto the November Cabinet schedule.
21 December 2023 - NW4129
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether her department is responsible for the Mphephu Resort; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) is the status of the Resort, (b) measures has she put in place to rehabilitate the specified resort and (c) time frames have been set in this regard?
Reply:
I have been informed that the Department is not responsible for the Mphephu Resort and has not provided any funding to this facility. I understand that this property belongs to the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism and the Honourable Member is advised to refer this query to them.
21 December 2023 - NW4174
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether her department has any records of the number of ongoing cases in which her department is the (a) plaintiff and (b) respondent; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I have been informed by the department that the details of ongoing cases are contained in the table below.
NO. |
NAME OF THE CASE |
DATE STARTED |
NATURE OF THE CASE |
1. |
Minister of Tourism vs. Corporate Skills Development Services. |
25/02/2019 |
This is a claim by Department for the irregular award of a tender to Corporate Skills Development Services. The Department requested the court to cancel the contract. |
2. |
Minister of Tourism vs. KA Morritt/ Morritt CC |
07/11/2016 |
This is a claim by the Department based on a collision between a Departmental vehicle and a vehicle belonging to and/ or driven by KA Morritt. |
3. |
Minister of Tourism vs. Bonwelong Skills Development cc and Mr Inama. |
27/01/2017 |
This is a claim for money paid in advance to Bonwelong for the implementation of the Hospitality Youth Programme in Limpopo and North West Provinces. Bonwelong cancelled the Agreement with the Department but failed to pay back the advanced payments. |
4. |
Minister of Tourism vs. Wayne Smith and Associates & Wayne Smith |
04/11/2020 |
This is a claim by the Department based on a collision between a Departmental vehicle and a vehicle belonging to and/ or driven by Wayne Smith and Associates & Wayne Smith. |
5. |
Minister of Tourism vs. Second Generation Consulting CC |
18/10/2017 |
This is a claim filed by the Minister for damages emanating from failure by the Defendant to discharge its contractual obligations as per the Agreement. |
6. |
Minister of Tourism vs. Amathemba Skills Pty Ltd |
14/07/2021 |
This is a claim by the Department against Amathemba Skills for:
|
7. |
Minister of Tourism vs. Samuel Malesela Mogale Business Enterprise CC |
10/07/2020 |
This is a claim by the Department against the Defendant as a result of double payment from a Covid-19 relief fund. |
8. |
Minister of Tourism vs. Siyanda Mbeki |
28/06/2019 |
On 1 July 2019, the Defendant was transferred from the Department of Tourism. At the time of his departure, he had an existing debt in respect of his bursary debt. The Defendant failed to comply with clause 2(C) of the bursary contract, where upon he had undertaken to “furnish the Department with necessary proof of my examination results immediately after the results of any annual examinations/ supplementary examinations have been made known by the examination authority.” As a result of his non-compliance the Department withdrew his bursary contract in terms of clause 3(b) of the contract and the debt became due. |
9. |
Minister of Tourism vs. ZM Kubheka. |
02/03/2022 |
This is a claim to recover from the official, overpayment of monthly salary, bond repayment and leave taken without authorisation, which resulted in leave without pay. |
10. |
Minister of Tourism vs. MBB Consulting Services (PTY) Ltd |
01/11/2022 |
The claim relates to financial loss to the amount of R12 215 308-00 suffered by the Department due to mismanagement of the projects’ funds by the Implementer. |
11. |
Minister of Tourism vs Kganakga SM |
21/04/2022 |
On 11 November 2020, the Department entered into a written an agreement with the Defendant wherein the latter was to participate in a training programme of Mandarin Language Tourist Guiding. The Defendant pulled out of the programme before its completion and as a result the Department incurred costs in the sum of R8 395-00 being costs for the preparation. The Department instructed the State Attorney to recover the amount from the Defendant. |
Ongoing Cases against the Department
NO. |
NAME OF THE CASE |
DATE STARTED |
NATURE OF THE CASE |
1. |
Gerson Nevari vs. Department of Tourism & Director-General of the Department of Tourism |
25/06/2020 |
Applicant is challenging that the Department that he resigned from his employment and if the court finds that indeed he resigned, he alleges constructive dismissal. |
2. |
Umbuso Training Services (Pty) Ltd vs. The Member of the Executive Committee, Department of Tourism |
15/04 2021 |
This is a claim against the Department for payment in the amount of R246 675-00 (being the 10% retention money) and for payment in the amount of R825 700-00 (being for administration of stipends). |
3. |
ActionSA vs. Minister of Tourism and Others |
16/11/2022 |
An application regarding the flow of untreated and raw sewage into the rivers and the sea in Durban and surrounding areas. |
21 December 2023 - NW4176
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) steps have been taken to deal with issues related to tourism mentioned in the World Bank report titled Safety First: The economic cost of crime in South Africa, to ensure that the challenges mentioned in the report are addressed in order to ensure growth in tourism and (b) are the timelines, deadlines and/or milestones in this regard?
Reply:
a) What steps have been taken to deal with issues related to tourism mentioned in the World Bank report?
It is the mandate of the South African Police Service to deal with all crime.
The safety of all tourists is paramount and we are determined to do all we can to ensure that all tourists have a safe and memorable experience in South Africa.
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).
I convened the inaugural, quarterly, National Safety Forum (NSF) meeting on 29 May 2023. Two subsequent meetings were held on 29 August 2023 and 12 December 2023.
The NSF comprises all three spheres of government, SAPS, Airports Company South Africa, National Prosecuting Authority, Provincial Tourism entities, the private sector and various tourism product owners.
The NSF meets quarterly and has set targets to be achieved quarterly.
The Department has also budgeted R174 Million for the deployment and training of 2300 Tourism Monitors who will be deployed at major tourist attractions and sites, including strategic ports of entry, national parks and other attractions across the country to assist with tourism and safety related information and matters.
Another aspect of the National Tourism Safety Strategy is the Victim Support Programme (VSP) running in some provinces to support victims of crime. A Standard Operation Procedure/ “How-to Guide” for the establishment of the VSP for all provinces was developed by the Department to assist provinces in setting up VSPs. Currently Mpumalanga and the western Cape have successful VSPs.
As part of the National Tourism Safety work, on 14 November 2023, I also held a Tourism Safety engagement with members of the Diplomatic Corps. The session was attended by 115 participants including Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Attachés’ as well as the embassy officials who included the locally recruited personnel.
The briefing document was sent, via the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, to the diplomatic Corps and all SA Missions abroad.
The purpose of the session was to amongst others share South Africa’s programmes, interventions and strategies towards tourist safety. The session provided prerequisite information with a view to enable the Diplomatic Community to appreciate South Africa’s efforts towards tourist safety and to further transmit the information to their citizens in countries of origin who are planning to visit South Africa in the near future.
Earlier this year, the private sector launched the Secura Traveller app and 24-hour operations center to assist tourists with a range of services they may need in the event of any incident. The private sector indicates that the app links tourists to more than 200 service providers including private security companies, medical and translation services.
(b) What are the timelines, deadlines and/or milestones in this regard?
The above initiatives are continuously implemented by the department with the Tourism Monitors programme launched in Mpumalanga on 12 December 2023. The deployment to the remaining eight provinces will take place during the festive season.
21 December 2023 - NW4178
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
What (a) are the details of the plans of (i) her department and (ii) SA Tourism (SAT) to adhere to the National Treasury circular to all departments requesting them to reduce spending, (b) are the (ii) timelines, milestones and/or deadlines in this regard and (c) is the anticipated impact of the reduction in spending on the (i) functioning and (ii) respective mandates of her department?
Reply:
(i)The Department
(a)(i) What are the plans to reduce spending?
I have been informed by the Department that the Cost Containment Guidelines were issued as advisory and not an instruction in terms of section 76 the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), 1999. The department, however, took an initiative to reduce expenditure on travel and related items as advised in the guidelines. An internal circular was issued to staff in that regard in September 2023.
(b)(ii) What are the timelines, milestones and/or deadlines in this regard?
Based on the guidelines, the Department of Tourism reprioritized and released R63,699m during the Adjustment Estimates of National Expenditure (AENE) process.
(c) What is the anticipated impact of this on the
(i) functioning of the Department
Although travelling was scaled down due to the budget cuts, the department is committed to achieve all the planned targets.
(ii) respective mandates of the department?
The department is committed to implement all the targets in the APP. There have not been any amendments to the APP.
(ii) SA Tourism
(a)(i) What are the plans to reduce spending?
I have been informed by South African Tourism that in 2024/25, SA Tourism’s budget allocation is set to decrease by 7,5%. The budget cuts and spending reviews during the Medium Term Expenditure Committee submission have heightened the entity’s budget optimisation strategy. The entity had already in its annual performance plan identified budget optimisation as an indicator, thus emphasizing efforts to adhere to austerity measures as communicated by National Treasury.
(b)(ii) What are the timelines, milestones and/or deadlines in this regard?
Overhead expenditure, which include operational costs such as communication, office consumables and IT support have been targeted as areas to reduce spending. Where contractual obligations exist, these will not be renewed. This is an ongoing process; however, most savings are expected to be realised in 2024/25 budget.
(c) What is the anticipated impact of this on the
(i) functioning and (ii) the respective mandate of SA Tourism
Marketing costs which are the core operating costs in achieving SAT’s are expected to decrease by 6% in 2024/25. Hosting and capabilities have been targeted to be reduced. These include reduction in travel costs of hosted media and trade.
Also, currently cost efficiency measures are being implemented in procurement of marketing initiatives to ensure that SAT achieves maximum value for money and unnecessary spending is avoided.
01 December 2023 - NW4031
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Tourism
What is the total number of (a) employees and (b) consultants currently employed by her department?
Reply:
(a) I have been informed by the Department that the total number of employees is 464 as at the 31 October 2023
(b) None
01 December 2023 - NW4047
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
(a) How was the decision reached to launch the tourism marketing campaign valued at over R30 million involving a certain person (details furnished), (b) what had been (i) budgeted for and (ii) spent on this campaign?
Reply:
(a)– (b) (i & ii)
This was not a decision by government and the value of the campaign is not R30 million.
The budget came from the private sector.
The tourism marketing campaign with Comedian Trevor Noah, referred to, is the initiative of the private sector and was launched by Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) and Tourism Marketing South Africa (TOMSA).
01 December 2023 - NW3493
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1) With regard to the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA), (a) which companies are used to grade establishments and (b) for how long these grading companies has been used in the past three financial years; (2) (a) what criterion is used to appoint these companies to grade establishments and (b) on what basis do these companies grade establishments; (3) what amount of the funds paid by establishments to be graded is paid to (a) the department and (b) the TGCSA and (c) what total amount of grading funds has her department earned in the past five financial years as compared to the TGCSA?
Reply:
(1) (a) Which companies are used to grade establishments
I have been informed by South African Tourism (SAT) that individuals, also referred to as Grading Assessors, and not companies, are contracted to the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA).
They are contracted through a Service Provider Agreement (SPA) which is valid for three (3) years, with an extension of two (2) years subject to performance.
An assessor is a natural person who:
i) is above reproach in relation to his unequivocal support and submission to the laws of the Republic of South Africa and the brand and reputation of the TGCSA;
ii) is accredited by means of an entry examination, which will form a material prerequisite condition to the execution and/or maintenance of the Service Provider Agreement;
iii) maintains their accreditation and qualification to be appointed and perform under the terms and conditions of the Service Provider Agreement, by attending each and every session of the compulsory two (2) days Annual Conference, which includes a refresher course;
iv) performs to the standard of the Agreement and as may be instructed by the TGCSA and to the satisfaction of the TGCSA objectives and brand during the twelve (12) months preceding their objectively adjudicated Performance Appraisal. The Performance Appraisal will be done no later than the 30th day of September of each calendar year, unless specifically and expressly agreed otherwise between the Parties; and
v) agrees and commits to a suspensive condition that the Agreement between the Parties only remains effective and enforceable, if they will act or will continue to act principally as an ad hoc independent service provider and brand representative of the TGCSA, yet fully self – employed.
(b) For how long has these grading companies been used in the past three financial years
For fiscal year 2020/21 until 2022/2023 we had a total of forty-seven (47) Grading Assessors.
There are currently forty-three (43) Assessors contracted to TGCSA, who have been conducting assessments since the 1st of April 2023.
(2) (a) What criterion is used to appoint these companies to grade establishments
During the recruitment process, the following are requirements for individuals wishing to be considered for the role of Independent Grading Assessor:
- A post-matric qualification in Tourism, Hospitality, or Quality Management;
- Previous quality grading experience in tourism and accommodation products would be an advantage but not strictly necessary;
- Sales and / or marketing experience;
- Tourist/guest experience in tourism accommodation establishments;
- Excellent computer literacy; and
- Proven ability to operate independently for extended periods, without close supervision.
Personal qualities required are as follows:
- High energy levels
- Excellent communication skills
- Business acumen
- High levels of personal grooming and presentation
- Strong attention to detail and an investigative nature
- Self-motivation and the ability to balance the demands of work priorities
- Excellent time management skills
- The ability to work as part of the team and to build strong relationships with wide range of people
- Good planning and organisational skills
- Highly professional and presentable at all times
- A “can do”/ passionate attitude.
It is important that Assessors have their own laptop, internet connection, mobile phone, and are mobile and have the ability to travel around the area / province where they will conduct assessments.
Upon being shortlisted for the role, they undertake training and are requested to submit a portfolio of evidence, achieving a 80% pass mark.
(b) On what basis do these companies grade establishments
To process establishments through the grading process in an accurate, credible and professional manner, the TGCSA utilizes an IT system called Total Quality in Tourism (TQiT).
The TGCSA also has key quality control measures that have been introduced. This role that is played by the Provincial Quality Assurance Specialist (PQAS) whose main function is to ensure that the submissions from the Assessors meet all quality requirements and that there is no compromise on credibility in the submission process.
Assessors are self-employed entrepreneurs that are paid a commission of the grading fee paid by the establishment to be assessed.
The current structure is as follows, as stipulated in the negotiated Service Provider Agreement with all Assessors:
(3) What amount of the funds paid by establishments to be graded is paid to
(a) The department
No funds are paid to the department by graded establishments as it is paid to TGCSA.
(b) what amount of the funds paid by establishments to be graded is paid to the TGCSA
The TGCSA relies on the grading fees paid by establishments to recover the costs of the actual quality assessments conducted on site.
(c) what total amount of grading funds has her department earned in the past five financial years as compared to the TGCSA
None / Not applicable
01 December 2023 - NW3439
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1)With reference to the Development Bank of South Africa (DBSA) and work undertaken by them on behalf of her department (a) in the past three financial years and (b) from 1 April 2023 to date, (i) what audit was undertaken to ensure that the DBSA has the capacity to undertake tourism projects, (ii) on what date was the specified audit undertaken, (iii) who undertook the audit and (iv) what was the outcome and/or relevant details of the audit; (2) whether she will furnish Mr M S F de Freitas with a copy of the audit report; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. I have been informed by the Department that no audit was undertaken on behalf of the Department.
2. Not Applicable
01 December 2023 - NW3399
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether she has found out that she has failed in her core mandate as she did not achieve core targets, including implementing the (a) global tourism brand campaign plan, (b) integrated destination brand, (c) marketing strategy and (d) elements of the global advocacy programme; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, how does she intend to remedy the situation?
Reply:
No, I have not failed. Just the opposite, in fact.
Some of the targets that were not achieved in the previous Financial Year 2022/23, have all been submitted and presented to the Portfolio Committee with the remedial action.
Also just to remind you that the Financial Year 2022/23 is applicable from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023.
The current Financial Year started on 1 April 2023 and will end on 31 March 2024.
In the current financial year the Department has achieved the following:
TOURIST ARRIVALS:
Between January and September this year, South Africa saw a significant influx of tourists, with over 6,1 million visitors arriving in the country, more than 58.4% when compared to the 3.8million arrivals to South Africa the same period in 2022.
During this period, visitors from Africa represented 4.6million of the total arrivals to South Africa, a 60% increase in Africa land arrivals and a 35% increase in Africa air arrivals when compared to the same period in 2022.
South Africa welcomed more than 862 000 arrivals from Europe between January and September this year, a 50,9% increase on the more than 571 000 arrivals in 2022.
From Asia, we welcomed more than 148 000 visitors in the first 9 months of 2023, an increase of 82,6% compared to arrivals in the same period in 2022.
Notably, China’s year-on-year arrival figures also show a significant increase to 3060 in October 2023. This reflects a 132,5% increase when compared to the same period in 2022.
All markets saw an increase in arrivals to South Africa of between 48 and 99%.
During the first two quarters of 2023, total tourist foreign direct spend amounted to R48 billion.
DOMESTIC TOURISM:
In the first half of 2023, South Africans took 18.8 million domestic overnight trips.
This is up 23.4% when compared to the same period in 2022.
Overnight spend was also up by 21.2% to reach just over R52 billion in the same period.
AIR ACCESS:
We have also seen great growth in our Air Access with the resumption of the Direct Flight from China in February this year.
Latam also launched its inaugural flight to South Africa in September 2023.
In October, South African Airways also relaunched its direct flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Sao Paulo in Brazil.
In December 2023, we are expecting the direct flight will resume between Johannesburg and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and we are working with the Saudi Arabia Air Access team to secure a direct flight from Cape Town to Jeddah.
South Africa also has six active airlines connecting over 23 cities in African countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Botswana.
OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS:
One month after my arrival in the Department, we scrapped the controversial R1billion Tottenham Hotspurs deal.
In the 2023/24 Financial Year, due to my intervention, an out-of-court settlement was reached, unlocking the R1.2 billion Tourism Equity Fund and the Request for Proposals opened on 6 November 2023.
Furthermore, the Green Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa was gazetted for public comment in September 2023 and the Tourism Sector Masterplan was also gazetted for implementation on 13 October 2023.
All the performance reports for the previous Financial Years are as per the Department’s APP and have been reported to the Portfolio Committee and are available online on the Parliamentary Monitoring Group.
01 December 2023 - NW3377
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether her department has actually implemented any of its plans to encourage tourists to visit the Republic after COVID-19; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Yes, since January 2023, the department has achieved the following:
TOURIST ARRIVALS:
Between January and September this year, South Africa saw a significant influx of tourists, with over 6,1 million visitors arriving in the country, more than 58.4% when compared to the 3.8million arrivals to South Africa the same period in 2022.
During this period, visitors from Africa represented 4.6million of the total arrivals to South Africa, a 60% increase in Africa land arrivals and a 35% increase in Africa air arrivals when compared to the same period in 2022.
South Africa welcomed more than 862 000 arrivals from Europe between January and September this year, a 50,9% increase on the more than 571 000 arrivals in 2022.
From Asia, we welcomed more than 148 000 visitors in the first 9 months of 2023, an increase of 82,6% compared to arrivals in the same period in 2022.
Notably, China’s year-on-year arrival figures also show a significant increase to 3060 in October 2023. This reflects a 132,5% increase when compared to the same period in 2022.
All markets saw an increase in arrivals to South Africa of between 48 and 99%.
During the first two quarters of 2023, total tourist foreign direct spend amounted to R48 billion.
DOMESTIC TOURISM:
In the first half of 2023, South Africans took 18.8 million domestic overnight trips.
This is up 23.4% when compared to the same period in 2022.
Overnight spend was also up by 21.2% to reach just over R52 billion in the same period.
AIR ACCESS:
We have also seen great growth in our Air Access with the resumption of the Direct Flight from China in February this year.
Latam also launched its inaugural flight to South Africa in September 2023.
In October, South African Airways also relaunched its direct flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Sao Paulo in Brazil.
In December 2023, we are expecting the direct flight will resume between Johannesburg and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and we are working with the Saudi Arabia Air Access team to secure a direct flight from Cape Town to Jeddah.
South Africa also has six active airlines connecting over 23 cities in African countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Rwanda and Botswana.
OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS:
One month after my arrival in the Department, we scrapped the controversial R1billion Tottenham Hotspurs deal.
In the 2023/24 Financial Year, due to my intervention, an out-of-court settlement was reached, unlocking the R1.2 billion Tourism Equity Fund and the Request for Proposals opened on 6 November 2023.
Furthermore, the Green Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa was gazetted for public comment in September 2023 and the Tourism Sector Masterplan was also gazetted for implementation on 13 October 2023.
All the performance reports for the previous Financial Years are as per the Department’s APP and have been reported to the Portfolio Committee and are available online on the Parliamentary Monitoring Group.
01 December 2023 - NW3765
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
With reference to projects undertaken by the National Department of Tourism in the past three financial years and since 1 April 2023 up to the latest specified date for which information is available, (a) who undertook each project in each month, (b) how were the project suppliers identified and (c) what was the (i) budget allocation for each project and (ii) actual expenditure in each case?
Reply:
I have been informed by the Department that all the information requested is available online on PMG as follows:
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/31113/
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/32405/
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/33718/
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/33362/
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/33885/
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/35687/
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/35399/
https://pmg.org.za/committee-meeting/34166/
ii) The projects and progress for quarters 1 and 2 for the current Financial Year 2023/24 have also been reported to the Portfolio Committee.
01 December 2023 - NW3888
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
With regard to forensic audits undertaken by her department (a) in the past three financial years and (b) since 1 April 2023, (i) which audits have been (aa) initiated and (bb) concluded in each month, (ii) what were the outcomes of each audit, (iii) what was the monetary value of each audit, (iv) what was the nature of each audit, (v) who conducted the audits in each case and (vi) what was the outcome of each audit in each case?
Reply:
The Department put in a request to the Portfolio Committee on Tourism to present these details at a closed session, given the sensitivity of the matters as some of these are currently before the police and in courts in some cases.
The BRRR report, dated 20 October 2023, and tabled in Parliament on the same date (ATC no. 142) states on page 13:
“The guidance from the minister and the deputy Minister was that the Committee may consider having a closed session. The Committee agreed to a closed session meeting which was scheduled but had to be postponed. A new date for the meeting has not been received.”
We are currently awaiting the Portfolio Committee to arrange the meeting.
01 December 2023 - NW3825
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether her department keeps records of arrested, convicted and deported tourists; if not, why not; if so, what (a) is the total number of tourists who were (i) arrested, (ii) convicted and (iii) deported since 1 January 2000 up to the latest date for which information is available and (b) was the nature of the crime in each case?
Reply:
I have been informed that the Department does not keep records of arrested, convicted and deported tourists as this is not within the mandate of the Department.
a) (i)- (ii) and (b) Not applicable
01 December 2023 - NW3952
Ngcobo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether (a) she, (b) the Deputy Minister and (c) any other official in her department attended the Rugby World Cup Final in France in October 2023; if not; what is the position in this regard; if so, what (i) are the relevant details of each person in her department who attended the Rugby World Cup, (ii) is the total number of such persons and (iii) were the total costs of (aa) travel, (bb) accommodation and (cc) any other related costs that were incurred by her department as a result of the trip(s)?
Reply:
See below
WHO |
Whether anybody attended the Rugby World Cup in France |
(i) What are the relevant details of each person who attended the Rugby world Cup |
(ii) What is the total number of such persons |
(iii)(aa) What were the total costs of travel |
(iii)(bb) What were the total costs of accommodation |
(iii)(cc) Any other related costs that were incurred by the department as a result of the trip(s) |
a) Minister |
No |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
b) Deputy Minister |
No |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
c) Any other official in the department |
No official in the department attended on official business |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
01 December 2023 - NW3970
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
With regard to the top leadership and management in the (a) Director-General and (b) Deputy Director-General level in her department, (i) what qualifications does each of the specified persons have in each case and (ii) how do the specified qualifications align with the position that must be filled?
Reply:
With regard to the top leadership and management in the department |
(i) What qualifications does each of the specified persons have in each case |
(ii) How do the specified qualifications align with the position that must be filled |
Director- General (DG) |
|
Applied Physics is about finding solutions, problem solving and analytical thinking. Knowledge and Information Systems management is about the knowledge economy, management of knowledge systems, technological applications, decision systems, utilisation and management of data as well as management of complexity amongst others. Strategic and Corporate Governance focuses on strategy, finance, risk management, corporate governance and business law. |
Deputy Director-General: Corporate Management (DDG: CM) |
|
The position of DDG – Corporate Management requires a qualification in any of the disciplines applicable within a Corporate Management Environment. A qualification in Social Sciences provides a competitive advantage of understanding people management and human capital within a broader Corporate Management context which is central in the management of the Corporate Strategy. |
Deputy Director-General: Tourism Research, Policy and International Relations (DDG: TRP&IR) |
In addition to the above qualifications the DDG completed the following subjects as part of a PhD programme on Tourism Management (Thesis outstanding):
|
The DDG: TRP&IR oversees the provision of tourism research, policy, international relations and strategic sector partnerships. This includes the following functions:
DDG’s qualifications cover, amongst others, the following areas that are relevant to the position: Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, Strategic Tourism Management, International Tourism policy and planning and Resource Methodology. |
Deputy Director-General: Destination Development (DDG: DD) |
|
A key component of Executive Management is problem solving and creating an enabling environment for staff to deliver. The formal studies to the MSc level are related to the key areas of problem solving and management of human capital. The topic of the PhD was “A model for integrated tourism infrastructure planning in the South African Public Sector” This is directly related to the current role of the DDG: Destination Development. |
Deputy Director-General: Tourism Sector Support Services) |
|
The three degrees are located within the Humanities discipline. Knowledge of the Constitution and other laws aligns with sound governance, applying the principles of administrative justice which includes equality, fairness, openness and transparency in providing services to citizens including the ability to contextualise and implement policy |
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) |
|
In terms of the Treasury Regulations Part 2, the CFO is expected to perform the following functions:
the institution
The qualifications of the CFO are in line with what the position entails. The qualifications are both in financial and managerial field. |
27 November 2023 - NW3491
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1)The Auditor-General Report of the 2022/23 financial year identified 26 vacant posts from a structure of 202 approved positions, (a) can she identify where these vacancies are distributed, (b) how these vacancies impact the work of SA Tourism and (c) by when these vacancies will be filled; (2) with two cases of corruption reported in her department and still under investigation, what is the progress on the investigation of these cases?
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.
27 November 2023 - NW3422
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
(a) What number of officials in SA Tourism were suspended in each month in the (i) past three financial years and (ii) since 1 April 2023 to date, (b) on what date was each suspension lifted in each month, (c) what were the reasons for each suspension, (d) what level did each suspended official occupy, (e) what total number of officials were given paid leave in each month, (f) on what date did each suspension commence in each month, (g) what total amount was paid out to each official in each month whilst on suspension and (h) what number of officials are still suspended with pay?
Reply:
I have been informed by SAT that details of suspensions are contained in the table below.
(a) What total number of officials in SA Tourism were suspended in each month |
(b) On what date was each suspension lifted in each month |
(c) What were the reasons for each suspension |
(d) What level did each suspended official occupy |
(e) What total number of officials were given paid leave in each month |
(f) On what date did each suspension commence in each month |
(g) What amount was paid out to each official in each month whilst on suspension |
(h) What number of officials are still suspended with pay |
|
(i) 2020-21 |
0 |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
NA |
(i) 2021-22 |
One (1) Official |
Suspension remained from the appeal process to dismissal |
Precautionary suspension pending hearing |
Senior Management |
One Official |
30 March 2022 |
March 2022- R62 469.11 April 2022 – R88 433.30 May 2022- R63 743.48 June 2022 – R13 460.63 July 2022 – R118 311.72 January 2023 – R2645.09 April 2023 – R814 097.03 |
N/A |
(i) 2022-23 |
One (1) official |
Until the end of the contract term |
Precautionary suspension pending an investigation |
Executive level |
One official |
31 August 2022 |
August 2022 – R91 521.08 September 2022 – R91 521.08 October 2022 – R91 521.08 November 2022 – R91 521.08 December 2022 – R91 521.09 January 2023 – R81 856.36 February 2023 – R96 069.75 |
N/A |
(ii) 1 April 2023 |
One (1) official |
Still pending |
Precautionary suspension pending a forensic investigation |
Senior Management |
One (1) official suspended |
10 July 2023 |
July 2023 – R149 901.87 August 2023 – R155 191.60 September 2023 – R136 624.97 October 2023 – R136 625.00 November 2023 – R136 624.97 |
One (1) official remains on suspension |
27 November 2023 - NW3753
Mohlala, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Tourism
In light of the looming economic crisis resulting from the prolonged beach closures in Durban and the potential devastation facing the tourism industry and its entire value chain, what specific immediate action is her department undertaking to swiftly restore these vital tourist attractions?
Reply:
Tourism is a concurrent function with clear roles and responsibilities for each sphere of government. Beaches fall within the responsibility of local government. The Honourable Member is therefore requested to redirect this question to the relevant authority.
27 November 2023 - NW3607
Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Tourism
(1)Whether her department opened satellite tourism offices in various municipalities to achieve transformation and capacity-building agendas; if not, why not; if so, what (a) total number of offices have been opened to date and (b) is the state of their functionality; (2) whether there has been any feedback from the local communities on how to better improve services aligned through tourism, in order to assist local and rural communities; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. (a) and (b) I have been informed that the Department has not opened satellite tourism offices in municipalities as Tourism is a concurrent function. It is the mandate of municipalities to manage and maintain such offices.
2. Not applicable
27 November 2023 - NW3533
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
What are the specific details in relation to the implementation status of the Tourism Transformation Fund?
Reply:
I have been informed by the Department that the Tourism Transformation Fund (TTF) was officially launched in May 2018.
Since inception a total of 27 applications were approved for support under the TTF. Unfortunately, eight (8) of the approved applications were withdrawn post investment, leaving 19 active approved projects at various stages of implementation.
Based on information received from the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), the reasons for withdrawal post approval predominantly relates to the failure by the client/ applicant to meet certain requirements stipulated in the contract between the client/ applicant and the NEF.
In some cases, applications were withdrawn by the NEF and in others by the applicant/ client.
There are an additional 38 active applications at various stages of assessments in the programme pipeline.
27 November 2023 - NW3532
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
Whether her department has started the preparations to renew the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Development Bank of Southern Africa, given that it expires on 30 November 2023 while the project pipeline has projects under implementation until 2025: if not, why not; if so, what specific steps has her department taken to renew the MoU?
Reply:
I have been informed that the Department has commenced the process to renew the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Development Bank of South of Southern Africa. This renewal will be concluded before the current contract expires, thus enabling completion of projects in the pipeline.
27 November 2023 - NW3531
Matumba, Mr A to ask the Minister of Tourism
What is the status of the 47 projects implemented by the Development Bank of Southern Africa in relation to the completion timelines presented to the Portfolio Committee on Tourism?
Reply:
I have been informed that the the Development Bank of Southern Africa manages a total of seventy (70) projects on behalf of the Department of Tourism. The status as at the 26th October 2023 is as follows:
- A total of 23 projects are complete i.e. 19 maintenance projects and four community projects.
- A total of 28 projects are in the construction stage i.e. 9 maintenance projects and 19 community projects.
- A total of 18 projects are in the concept, design and contractor procurement stages. Contractor appointment was terminated in 1 project and a new procurement process is underway for this project.
27 November 2023 - NW3317
De Freitas, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Tourism
With reference to the legal action and matters of any description undertaken by the SA Tourism (a) in the past three financial years and (b) from 1 April 2023 to date, (i) which matters were opened and closed in each month, (ii) what were the matters in each case, (iii) what matters were settled out of court in each month, (iv) what are the reasons that each specified matter was settled out of court, (v) which matters went to arbitration in each month, (vi) what were the outcomes in each matter, (vii) which matters went to court in each month and (viii) what were the outcomes of each matter in each case?
Reply:
I have been informed by SA tourism that legal matters undertaken by the entity are as tabled below.
Years |
(i) Which matters were opened and closed in each month |
(ii) What were the matters in each case |
(iii) What matters were settled out of court in each month |
(iv) What are the reasons that each specified matter was settled out of court |
(v) Which matters went to arbitration in each month |
(vi) What were the outcomes in each matter |
(vii) Which matters went to court in each month |
(viii) What were the outcomes of each matter in each case |
(a) 2020-21 |
||||||||
1. |
Brian Monare- Versus SA Tourism |
Labour case- unfair dismissal claim |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
Judgement granted in favour of the Applicant (Brian Monare) and costs ordered against SAT. |
n/a |
Judgement granted in favour of the Applicant (Brian Monare) and costs ordered against SAT. |
2. |
Godfrey Gwele- Versus SA Tourism |
Labour case- unfair dismissal claim |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
3. |
Thomas Bouwer- versus SA Tourism |
Labour case- unfair labour practices claim |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
Labour Court granted judgement granted in favour of SAT and application dismissed. |
n/a |
Labour Court granted judgement granted in favour of SAT and application dismissed. |
4. |
Greenshoots Projects and Communications (Pty) Ltd- Versus SA Tourism |
Application to review and set aside SAT Tender 162/2019 |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
Applicant (Greenshoots) failed to set down the matter for hearing within the prescribed timeframe. |
n/a |
Applicant (Greenshoots) failed to set down the matter for hearing within the prescribed timeframe. |
5. |
GF Angileri & 24 Others- Versus SA Tourism. |
Breach of Contract claim |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
|
6. |
Tsheola Dinare versus Synergy and SAT- |
Sub-contractor agreement between Synergy and the Applicant - Breach of contract |
n/a |
No relief was being sought against SAT and SAT will not oppose the matter. Synergy has notified SAT that the parties explored the possibility of a settlement and agreed to the same. |
n/a |
No relief was being sought against SAT and SAT will not oppose the matter. Synergy has notified SAT that the parties explored the possibility of a settlement and agreed to the same. |
n/a |
n/a |
(a) 2021-22 |
||||||||
1. |
Godfrey Gwele- Versus SA Tourism |
Labour case- unfair dismissal claim |
n/a |
n/a |
Labour Court referred the matter back to the CCMA, where the CCMA dismissed the application in favour of SAT. |
Labour Court referred the matter back to the CCMA, where the CCMA dismissed the application in favour of SAT. |
n/a |
Labour Court referred the matter back to the CCMA, where the CCMA dismissed the application in favour of SAT. |
2. |
GF Angileri & 24 Others- Versus SA Tourism |
Breach of Contract claim |
n/a |
n/a |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. |
n/a |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. |
3. |
Greenshoots Projects and Communications (Pty) Ltd Versus SA Tourism. |
Application to review and set aside SAT Tender 162/2019 |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
Applicant failed to set down the matter for hearing within the prescribed timeframe. |
n/a |
n/a |
4. |
Swift Thinking (Pty) Ltd- Versus SA Tourism |
Review Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
5. |
Letsema Consulting and Advisory (Pty) Ltd- Versus SA Tourism |
Review Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
(a) 2022-23 |
||||||||
1. |
GF Angileri & 24 Others- Versus SA Tourism |
Breach of Contract claim |
n/a |
n/a |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. |
n/a |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. |
2. |
Swift Thinking (Pty) Ltd- Versus SA Tourism November 2023. |
Review Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
3. |
Letsema Consulting and Advisory (Pty) Ltd- Versus SA Tourism |
Review Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
4. |
BLUEPRINT GROUP- Versus SA Tourism. |
PAIA Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
5. |
ALFRED TLABUKWE MASEMENE Versus SA Tourism |
Labour case- unfair dismissal claim |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
7. |
WAVELA MTHOBELI- Versus SA Tourism |
Labour case- unfair dismissal claim |
Mutual Separation Settlement signed on 02/03/2023 by the parties to sever employment relationship. Six (6) months’ salary paid out. |
n/a |
n/a |
Mutual Separation Settlement signed on 02/03/2023 by the parties to sever employment relationship. Six (6) months’ salary paid out. |
n/a |
Mutual Separation Settlement signed on 02/03/2023 by the parties to sever employment relationship. Six (6) months’ salary paid out. |
(b) 1 April 2023 |
||||||||
1. |
GF Angileri & 24 Others- Versus SA Tourism |
Breach of Contract claim |
n/a |
n/a |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. SAT is in the process of recovering funds. |
n/a |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. SAT is in the process of recovering funds. |
In August 2022 the Arbitrator ruled in favour of SAT and dismissed the application. SAT is in the process of recovering funds. |
2. |
Swift Thinking (Pty) Ltd- Versus SA Tourism |
Review Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
3. |
Letsema Consulting and Advisory (Pty) Ltd- Versus SA Tourism |
Review Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
4. |
BLUEPRINT GROUP- Versus SA Tourism. |
PAIA Application |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
5. |
ALFRED TLABUKWE MASEMENE- Versus SA Tourism |
Labour case- unfair dismissal claim |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |