Hon Chairperson, the development of a vibrant tourism industry should be a top priority of government. Tourism in South Africa has demonstrated significant growth since 1994 and is fast becoming a key component of the country's economy. The tourism industry has perhaps a greater potential than any other single industry, both directly and indirectly via its multiplier effects, to support economic growth and job creation.
With the Soccer World Cup around the corner, the Department of Tourism has the daunting task of ensuring that the tourism industry plays its role in hosting a successful event. Every step must be taken to ensure that the department is on course to meet its many targets in preparation for the influx of visitors expected for the 2010 World Cup. We must make the most of this wonderful opportunity for the tourism sector to grow by leaps and bounds for many years to come. This will turn our country into a world tourist hub.
In South Africa there are few working models using community projects based on handcrafts, such as Imbali Handcraft in KwaZulu-Natal, which offers a form of income for otherwise unemployed Zulu women. However, these kinds of projects need to be replicated in all parts of the country, especially in the remote and marginalised communities.
We in the IFP believe that our tourism sector can grow at a faster rate and in future contribute even more to our economic growth and development. It can also have a positive impact on a much broader spectrum of people than is currently the case, if certain fundamentals are dealt with more vigorously.
Here I refer to the hardy annual of crime. Whilst we may like to believe that crime does not deter more tourists from visiting our country, the reality is that it does. We must not bury our heads in the sand like ostriches and believe that nothing is going wrong around us. We must act decisively to provide comfort to tourists.
While we do congratulate the relevant people and organisations on the good work that has been done in reaching these targets and milestones, we are still concerned that the benefits and opportunities that stem from this growth are not more broad-based and shared by more South Africans, especially those from the rural areas where I come from. [Laughter.] Cheers!
The concerns and anxieties of these previously neglected groups need to be understood and adequately addressed in building a successful tourism industry in South Africa. There is a perception that tourism refers only to people travelling around and staying in hotels. The wider opportunities offered by tourism are not appreciated.
There is no doubt that tourism could contribute to community upliftment and help local communities escape from poverty. The department should, therefore, initiate or provide support to income-generating projects such as those based on handcrafted materials.
This department could and should play a bigger role in the development of the rural areas of our country through investments in, and the promotion of, tourism and tourist-related activities in these areas. I believe that the unique and truly South African experiences that these areas have to offer will have great appeal for communities. The department needs to increase job and entrepreneurial opportunities, especially to empower disadvantaged communities and groups.
The IFP supports this Budget Vote for people in my age group. The diski dance, let's go for it. [Time expired.] [Applause.]