At the meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Tourism today, the members learnt of the atrocious and heinous crimes (rape and robbery) committed in Hazyview, a prime tourist destination adjacent to Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga. The Committee is also worried about the recent drowning of beach enthusiasts around Cape Town.
The Committee strongly condemns these crimes, which affected young children and young women in the recent week around the Hazyview area. The two incidents occurred within a week of each other in the same area and are of grave concern as they affect the vulnerable group of our society that should be protected.
Furthermore, these incidents could have a major impact on the tourism industry as a whole, affecting job creation ultimately sustainable livelihoods. Moreover, it can perpetuate the perception that South Africa is a “crime-embattled” destination and deter potential visitors from coming into our shores.
The Committee is concerned about the increase in drowning incidents on unmanned beaches around Cape Town where two boys from North West drowned trying to save their fellow schoolmate, and on another incident, a seven-year-old boy from Atlantis drowned at the Melkbos beach.
The Committee would like to convey its sympathies and condolences to the families and friends affected by these recent unfortunate events. Furthermore, the Committee appeals to the relevant authorities to curb the scourge of crime and improve safety of our beaches and other areas in the country.
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