The very survival of the tourism industry and the jobs it creates rests in the adjustment of the current COVID-19 regulations. Every day that the industry remains restrained is a R748m loss of tourism expenditure and the further permanent loss of much-needed jobs.
The Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) recently presented a tourism recovery plan to Government, backed by comprehensive health protocols developed by the industry and reflecting tourism’s commitment to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Adhering to these protocols will go a long way to demonstrate the industry’s commitment to curbing the spread of the virus and assist in the Minister of Tourism’s efforts to motivate for the sector to open various aspects of travel and tourism.
The Tourism Industry Standard Protocols follow the journey of the travellers and map-out safety precautions and regulations for operations during the COVID-19 pandemic that the industry will need put in place to safeguard both staff and tourists. The protocols have taken into consideration guidelines from the Department of Health, WHO, and UNWTO and include basic hygiene, appropriate mask-wearing and social distancing. Fully supported by the public sector, the development of these protocols is a voluntary and free private sector process.
These self-regulated protocols include easy-to-follow guidelines and must be implemented and adhered to by all tourism businesses open for operation under current Level 3 regulations. They will remain in place for as long as the declaration of a national disaster remains in force.
All businesses in the sector will be able to register on a centralised portal, currently being developed. Those who register will be required to complete a pledge to receive a COVID-19-safe logo/certificate to use in their marketing collateral. The portal will include a mechanism for the reporting of non-compliance by registered businesses.
To download the updated Protocols, please click on the link below:
