Honourable House Chairperson,
The ACDP notes this Department’s budget allocation of R2.43 billion for the 2025/26 financial year.
We are cognisant that the Tourism sector has the potential to uplift communities, especially in rural areas, to create a myriad of jobs, from accommodating guests, to guiding, entertainment, and in craft production. Tourism revenue frequently brings in foreign currency and often supports improvements in roads, sanitation and public services that enhance the quality of life for locals.
The South African Ministry of Tourism, however, is unstable. It has faced budget underspending, stalled infrastructure projects, irregular expenditure and weak oversight, with the entity having faced repeated leadership changes since 2023 amidst allegations of misconduct. It is irrational that Tourism’s Acting CEO should be retained, despite being named 46 times in a forensic report on the Dinokeng Festival scandal. The ACDP calls for her immediate axing, following due processes.
This year, the Ministry risks forfeiting over 800 million rand in unused funds to National Treasury, due to poor budget execution. Additionally, a R35 million payment for services not rendered was processed through SA Tourism’s offices in South Africa and the US. These payments were signed off by former executives just days before the financial year ended, bypassing banking controls. It would be foolish not to suspect skullduggery?
These failures are unconscionable in our ‘world in one country’ with its unique blend of cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, diverse wildlife, and extraordinary natural beauty – where tourism is low lying fruit with passionate operators and workers – success should be easy. The Department must uphold ethical leadership by collaborating and fostering partnerships with international bodies to boost international arrivals, by supporting SMMEs and initiating infrastructure upgrades, with the glaring example of the Robben Island Museum.
The ACDP calls for the prioritisation of rural and township tourism. The entire tourism sector needs upgraded technology, such as smart tourism systems, data analytics, and digital platforms, to enable monitoring and managing visitor flows.
Finally, as Kingdom builders, the ACDP supports the call of the Minister to consider placing SAT under administration, to restore public trust and operational integrity.
I thank you.
