The Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) has welcomed the appointment of Derek Hanekom as the new Minister of Tourism.
Minister Hanekom will be taking over the portfolio from Marthinus van Schalkwyk, who had established a good working relationship with the local travel and tourism trade.
TBCSA Board Chairman Mavuso Msimang said the appointment of Minister Hanekom was a positive move, which is welcomed by the travel and tourism private sector. He described Minister Hanekom as a ‘salt of the earth’ type of leader, who brings into the portfolio considerable administrative experience.
“He served in the Mandela administration as Minister of Agriculture and Land Affairs. He went on to take charge of Science and Technology, where he is credited with driving South Africa’s successful bid for the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project,” Msimang said.
TBCSA CEO Mmatsatsi Ramawela thanked the previous Minister, van Schalkwyk, for his contribution towards growing the country’s tourism economy and making tourism a key contributor to the country’s GDP.
“We wish him well in his future endeavours.”
CEO of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA), David Frost, remembers working well with Minister Hanekom in driving change in the agriculture sector.
“He is a good guy and a hard-working Minister. He is not afraid to get his hands dirty,” Frost recalls.
The TBCSA also commended President Zuma on the appointment of ministers in the key areas of Transport, Public Enterprises and the establishment of a new ministry for small business development.
“We congratulate the new Minister of Tourism and specifically welcome the establishment of a dedicated Ministry for Small Business Development,” said Eddy Khosa, National Chairman for the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA).
Khosa said he believes the new ministry will play a critical role in accelerating support for SMMEs and closing the gap, which currently exists in stimulating SMME growth.
Key member associations of the TBCSA including the Southern African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (SAVRALA), the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa (BARSA), SATSA and the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) have all welcomed the retention of Dipuo Peters as Minister of Transport.
The associations cited the importance of continuity in addressing issues such as vehicle licensing, road conditions in the country and other transport-related matters, which are intimately linked to the delivery of a great tourism experience.
The TBCSA reiterates the private sector’s commitment to working with government and providing the necessary support to Minister Hanekom as he settles into his new portfolio. – SAnews.gov.za
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