Minister of Agriculture and Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen has expressed concern regarding the tourism industry in the Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape, bemoaning that it is in crisis due to the surge of crime that threatens the safety of tourists and hinders economic growth.

Steenhuisen said this at a meeting at the Gqeberha beachfront, organised by the party’s provincial leadership, to address issues facing the hospitality and tourism sector.

He was joined by DA’s Eastern Cape leader and deputy minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Andrew Whitfield and provincial chairperson, Yusuf Cassim.

The popular tourism spots across the province are facing a serious economic blow and safety concerns to tourists from different countries owing to the increase in crime.

Cassim pointed out the economic challenges facing Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) and the entire Eastern Cape, citing safety and security of tourists due to high crime rates.

“The recent surge in abductions in the Eastern Cape, along with crime and vandalism at the Gqeberha beachfront, has negatively impacted tourism and the province’s economy.”

Cassim suggested creating a specialised provincial task force to work with tourism operators that would enhance the safety of tourists and restore the industry’s confidence.

He also proposed that establishing a South African Police Service 9SAPS) beachfront tourism protection unit can ensure safety in tourist areas and improve experiences for both visitors and residents.

Cassim said the DA has asked Steenhuisen to raise the issues with the ministers of police and tourism for urgent intervention as the summer season approaches.

“Specific to Nelson Mandela Bay, it is critical to assess the readiness of the beachfront safety cluster. Additionally, ongoing damage to city assets along the beachfront continues to undermine the tourism experience.”

He said delayed repairs exacerbate safety concerns, and impact the broader tourism industry and employment.

Meanwhile, Steenhuisen told the media that he heard from a number of community organisations about the lack of police presence in the area.

“They said there’s no SAPS assistance in any serious form and enough numbers to be able to patrol in the area,” Steenhuisen said.

He described a “misalignment” in the Nelson Mandela Bay between the City’s economic opportunities and policing objectives, as well as a lack of accountability for negative behaviour.

Steenhuisen promised to meet with Parliament’s police portfolio committee chairperson Ian Cameron to discuss the potential measures that can be taken to address the scourge of crime in the area.

The party proposed a five-point plan for a safer beachfront, which includes establishing a dedicated beachfront policing unit comprising SAPS, metro police, and the traffic department and operating a 24-hour metro police satellite office at the beachfront.

“Increase metro police and safety vehicle and foot patrols along the beachfront, and enhanced crime prevention operations in collaboration with the metro police, traffic department, private armed response companies, and neighbourhood watches.”

Additionally, repairing all faulty street lights and introducing 24/7 monitored closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras linked to a rapid response unit.

In September, Nelson Mandela Bay Mayor Gary van Niekerk promised residents that the city would be the safest in the country by Christmas, amid the rise of criminal activity.

Van Niekerk said cameras would be installed in hotspot areas by December 25 and called on local business owners to install cameras as well.

IOL