Western Cape tourism establishments to compete in national awards
The Western Cape’s top tourism establishments have been announced.
Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, congratulated the provincial winners of the Lilizela Awards, commending them for establishing the province as one of the world’s most welcoming destinations.
The awards ceremony took place on Friday, 30 September at the River Club.
“I’d like to congratulate the 42 winners who will now go on to represent our province at the national awards. I also want to commend every one of the 209 entrants for the work they are doing to ensure the Western Cape is among the world’s most popular tourism destinations. The Western Cape’s most valuable asset is its people. So many visitors remark on our warmth, friendliness and hospitality, and it is major factor in repeat visits.
This welcoming nature has become part of the essence of our visitor offering. The Western Cape’s Project Khulisa growth strategy has selected tourism as a focus sector, with the potential to add up to 100 000 jobs to the economy. We will reach this goal in partnership with the people who run establishments like these who are setting the standard for service excellence in the South African tourism industry.”
An initiative of National Department of Tourism, the winners will go through the national awards which takes place in Sandton on 16 October 2016.
Minister Winde wished the 42 winners well ahead of the national competition.
“Our finalists consistently do well at the national awards, they are excellent ambassadors for our province.”
Darryl Erasmus, Chief Quality Assurance Officer at the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, said: “We would like to congratulate all the Western Cape finalists and winners. Each year, we are encouraged by the quality of products and services that enter the Lilizela Tourism Awards. Through their high standards they definitely help us deliver on brand promise of South Africa being a tourism destination that excels in high levels of quality service excellence. These businesses’ continued commitment positively enhances South Africa’s global competitiveness.”
The Lilizela Tourism Awards are an opportunity to celebrate professionalism, creativity and innovation in the industry. The provincial awards are being held in the month of September to coincide with Tourism Month.
Enquiries:
Bronwynne Jooste
Spokesperson: Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 060 970 4301
Email: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za
