Tourism Minister Lindiwe Sisulu welcomes the latest revisions of the regulations related to the surveillance and the control and management of COVID-19.
On Wednesday, health minister Joe Phaahla gazetted a notice that immediately removed any legal obligation to wear a face mask indoors and in public settings, limits on gatherings, and border checks in South Africa.
“The return to life as we knew it before COVID-19 will go a long way in boosting the tourism sector's growth as travellers will be able to participate in more activities including attending big events and gatherings that not only contribute to our country's appeal but also to our economy,” Minister Sisulu said.
She said: “Events are one of the key drivers of domestic travel and we encourage South Africans to continue traveling safely across provinces to attend various types of events. The lifting of limits on gatherings will give a much-needed boost to our business events sector and allow us to host bigger events and for us to welcome more delegates to our country.”
Overall, these revised regulations will have a positive impact and will allow the tourism sector to once again contribute fully and meaningfully towards the South African economy and towards job creation.
“As we are all looking forward to a brighter year for the South African tourism sector recovery, these revised regulations are most welcome. These revisions will immediately address some challenges that travellers and the tourism industry have expressed and will make South Africa more accessible and attractive. Doing away with the requirement of a PCR test and vaccination certificate for all arrivals reduces the added cost and administrative burden to travelling,” Minister Sisulu said.
Minister Sisulu also expressed her delight as sporting codes, music festivals and other major conferences are now permitted at full scale, meaning more tourists in the country.
Issued by Ministry of Tourism
Steve Motale on 0837840719
MLO Mpumzi Zuzile on 0725509019
Tourism House
Sunnyside, Pretoria, 0001