MyPE

Community Business Directory, Event Listings, News and Views from Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay

Eastern Cape Must Prioritise Tourism Infrastructure, Safety To Unlock Economic Potential

By

Dear Editor

As we mark the last day of Tourism Month, it is essential to reflect on the opportunities this vibrant sector brings to the Eastern Cape. The Democratic Alliance (DA) believes that tourism is not just about celebrating our province’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife, but about realising its potential to drive economic growth and create much-needed jobs.

The Eastern Cape, with the third highest tourism revenue in the country, is at a critical juncture. Many of our tourism sites are underdeveloped, and key infrastructure is neglected. This is not just a missed opportunity but a pressing issue that needs immediate attention.

Tourism could be the backbone of our local economy, but only if the provincial government and its agencies, particularly the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) and the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA), act decisively.

One of the most urgent needs is for DEDEAT to work closely with the Department of Roads and Transport, Public Works, and municipalities to prioritise road and infrastructure development to key protected areas and tourism destinations. Improving access to these sites can unlock their full potential, attract more visitors, and create jobs for local communities.

We cannot afford to ignore the safety of our visitors, which is a critical factor in ensuring the long-term success of this industry. The Eastern Cape, particularly areas like the Wild Coast, faces mounting safety concerns that threaten the well-being of tourists and jeopardise the livelihoods of those who rely on tourism for their economic survival.

Ensuring visitors feel safe is as important as promoting our province’s beauty and cultural richness.

Earlier this month, during a plenary sitting of the Eastern Cape Legislature, the DA called on DEDEAT MEC, Nonkqubela Pieters, to create an interdepartmental task team to develop a clear, actionable plan to address the infrastructure challenges facing the tourism sector.

Such a plan must demonstrate the mutual benefit to all stakeholders, showing how investing in infrastructure serves not only tourism but also schools, clinics, hospitals, and broader local economic development.

Moreover, the Eastern Cape must embark on a targeted tourism promotion campaign, partnering with private stakeholders to amplify efforts already being made. By fostering strong partnerships and promoting our parks, reserves, and cultural landmarks, we can position the Eastern Cape as not just the “home of legends” but the home of tourism in South Africa.

A comprehensive approach to safety is also essential for attracting and retaining visitors. This includes improving the visible policing presence in key tourist areas, developing partnerships between law enforcement and local communities, and creating effective communication channels that ensure tourists can access timely and relevant safety information. By addressing safety proactively, we can protect both our people and the future of our tourism sector.

The DA has also called on the Premier, Oscar Mabuyane, to take immediate steps to address the safety and infrastructure challenges threatening the tourism industry.

Working collaboratively, we can ensure that the Eastern Cape is a safe and welcoming destination for all.

Tourism Month should not simply be a celebration. It must serve as a call to action. By prioritising infrastructure and collaboration, the Eastern Cape can unlock the full potential of its tourism sector and bring lasting economic benefits to our communities.

Regards

Leander Kruger MPL
DA Shadow MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism

The following two tabs change content below.

Port Elizabethan

This author is a 'catch-all' for occasional articles and letters written to MyPE. The Author of each article can be found in the signature at the bottom of each individual article.