Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom said he was deeply saddened and disturbed when he heard of the fatal robbery at the popular Sakhumzi restaurant in Soweto at the weekend.
“This has come as a big shock to the community of Vilakazi Street, and to the tourism industry,” said Minister Hanekom. “I would like to express my condolences to the family of Mr Kwezi Hudson on their loss, and to the owner Mr Sakhumzi Maqubela.
“Vilakazi Street has enormous significance for our country and for the world. The families of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu lived here. Vilakazi Street is the home of our liberation struggle leaders and Nobel Prize laureates. It has become an iconic magnet for tourists from across South Africa and the world.
“It is essential that the community around Vilakazi Street, tourism business owners and our visitors are safe in this precinct.
“There can be no better tribute to those who have fallen victim to crime, and to all those who fought for our freedom, than to support the development and improvement of this area,” said Minister Hanekom.
The Department of Tourism will work together with provincial and local authorities, the community and businesses in the area to enhance safety in the vibrant precinct and promote further development.
Enquiries:
Mr Praveen Naidoo
Ministry of Tourism
Cell: +27 (0) 71 677 5004