In a recent interview with Newzroom Afrika, Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, CEO of the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), revealed that discussions are underway for the creation of a specialized police unit dedicated to combating crimes against tourists. The initiative, which forms part of a broader national strategy to boost tourism, aims to make South Africa a safer destination for both international and domestic travelers.
The announcement follows the release of South Africa’s new White Paper on Tourism Development and Promotion, which outlines key measures to revitalize the tourism sector, create jobs, and attract more visitors. One of the standout proposals is the establishment of a specialized tourism police unit to focus on both preventative security measures and swift resolutions of incidents affecting tourists.
“The single most important factor discouraging international tourists from visiting South Africa is safety and security. If we can ensure that South Africa is safe, not only for tourists but for local communities as well, we will see a significant increase in tourism numbers,” said Tshivhengwa. He emphasized that the safety of the country directly impacts its attractiveness as a travel destination, adding that a safer South Africa will lead to more job creation, economic growth, and opportunities for local communities.
Addressing Safety at Tourist Hotspots
Tshivhengwa pointed out that a safer environment, particularly on major travel routes and at key tourist destinations, is essential to the growth of South Africa’s tourism industry. “We are in discussions about the deployment of dedicated police resources at tourism hotspots around the country. The idea is to focus not only on preventing crimes against tourists but also ensuring that the surrounding communities feel secure,” he said.
This initiative is part of a larger collaboration between the tourism sector, the police, and government departments. Tshivhengwa acknowledged the challenges of limited resources but reiterated that the private sector is ready to assist wherever possible, as evidenced by past efforts to deploy private security in high-risk areas.
Global Models and Local Solutions
South Africa’s move to create a specialized police unit aligns with successful models in other parts of the world, such as Central and South America, where tourism-focused security forces have been implemented to protect both visitors and local economies. Tshivhengwa suggested that South Africa could adapt and improve on these models to suit local needs.
“Tourism safety is not just about protecting our visitors, it’s about safeguarding the livelihood of countless South Africans who depend on a thriving tourism industry,” he stated.
A Call for Collaboration
Tshivhengwa called on both the public and private sectors to continue working together to address safety concerns and create a welcoming environment for tourists. He stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue and partnership to ensure that all aspects of the White Paper’s proposals are successfully implemented.
Building Confidence in South Africa as a Destination
By improving safety and security, Tshivhengwa is confident that South Africa can reclaim its position as a top global travel destination. “A safer South Africa will lead to more tourists, more jobs, and a stronger economy. This initiative is key to making that happen,” he concluded.
Photo credit: Newzroom Afrika
