De Lille Convenes National Tourism Safety Forum to Boost Visitor Protection

A key feature of the national safety strategy is the deployment of Tourism Monitors, trained personnel who enhance visibility, visitor support, and safety at key tourism hotspots.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has convened the National Tourism Safety Forum in Johannesburg to bolster and coordinate safety efforts across South Africa—an essential move ahead of the festive season, when tourist numbers surge. This meeting marks the Forum’s first sitting under the 7th administration, signalling renewed commitment to tourism safety at national and provincial levels.

The gathering included MECs, provincial tourism authorities, South African Tourism, private-sector bodies such as the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), and the South African Township and Village Tourism Association (SATOVITO), along with additional stakeholders from security, transport, and community structures. The Minister received a full state-of-readiness report from all provinces.

Tourism Monitors Deployed to Boost Visitor Confidence

A key feature of the national safety strategy is the deployment of Tourism Monitors, trained personnel who enhance visibility, visitor support, and safety at key tourism hotspots.

Minister de Lille confirmed that 40 of the 202 Tourism Monitors allocated to the Border Management Authority (BMA) have now been deployed to OR Tambo International Airport, South Africa’s busiest gateway. Their presence is expected to strengthen frontline visitor assistance, deter crime, and improve overall tourist experience.

“Safety is the foundation of tourism growth, and our ability to collaborate effectively determines how well we protect visitors and the jobs that depend on them,” de Lille said.

Deputy Minister Sotyu to Lead Safety Forum

De Lille also announced that Deputy Minister of Tourism, Maggie Sotyu, has been officially delegated to chair the Forum going forward. Sotyu brings significant expertise to the role, including her previous tenure as Deputy Minister of Police, where she oversaw national crime prevention initiatives.

Her leadership is expected to improve alignment between government departments, law enforcement, tourism bodies, and private-sector stakeholders involved in maintaining a safe tourism environment.

Communities Called to Support Tourism Safety

The Minister emphasised that tourism safety is not only a government responsibility but a national collective effort. She called on local communities to work with authorities and industry partners to ensure South Africa remains a welcoming and secure global destination.

“Tourism thrives when visitors feel safe, supported, and welcomed. It is our shared duty to preserve South Africa’s reputation and protect the jobs and businesses that depend on tourism,” de Lille said.

Strengthening Festive Season Preparedness

With the festive season approaching, the Forum will focus on:

• Enhancing visibility at airports, major attractions, and transport hubs

• Strengthening rapid response mechanisms for tourist incidents

• Improving coordination between police, tourism monitors, industry, and municipalities

• Ensuring safety measures are aligned across all nine provinces

The strengthened Forum is expected to improve monitoring, response times, and preventative strategies, reinforcing South Africa’s long-term tourism recovery and competitiveness.