The TOURISM Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), in collaboration with the Municipality of Durban and the Department of Tourism, launched a campaign to strengthen security on the beaches of Durban on Tuesday afternoon.
This initiative, which is the first of its kind, aims to strengthen the safety and security of tourists and was launched at a good time to gather participants in the tourism industry as there is an exhibition of Africa’s Travel Indaba, at the Nkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. The campaign is funded by the Tourism Marketing South Africa Collaborative Fund, which has provided resources to the city, ensuring the renewal of the importance of the relationship between public institutions and private companies. The services released include a 14-passenger taxi, five vans, six bicycles, two trailers, and uniforms for the municipal police unit that monitors security at the beach and tourist centers.
According to the municipality, the campaign aims to improve the safety and enjoyment of tourists and improve the tourism experience by increasing the effectiveness of visible police, coordinated surveillance, preparedness to respond to emergencies, and cooperation with stakeholders. The team will be strategically deployed in key tourist destinations along Durban’s coastline. In addition, the vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art technology that is connected to the Ministry of Home Affairs and other important departments that are often used by tourists.
Speaking at the launch of the program, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Makhotso Sotyu, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of tourists as South Africa continues to position itself as a globally competitive tourism destination.
This program is expected to play an important role in creating a safe and welcoming environment for local and foreign tourists while protecting the reputation of Durban as a premier destination for tourism and events.
The Mayor of Durban, Cyril Xaba, said that the release of this property shows the importance and impact of a meaningful partnership between the government and the private sector in driving sustainable growth in tourism and ensuring that tourists have a good time. He said the collaboration between the city and TBCSA continues to produce positive results that benefit communities and tourists.
“TBCSA is committed to taking part in reviving Thekwini as a leading tourism destination for local and foreign tourists. What is important in our discussions was safety and security, especially around the beach because the happiness of tourists is important in growing this industry and supporting businesses that rely on this sector,” said the chief executive officer of TBCSA, Tshifhiwa Tshifhiwa Tshifhiwa.