“The outburst of xenophobic violence in the country, in particular in KwaZulu-Natal, can cause damage to KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism industry,” said IFP Spokesperson on Economic Development and Tourism, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi MPL.
“We are quite concerned that these attacks might have a negative impact in KZN, especially in tourism. We condemn the attacks as having seriously damaged the country’s reputation and as heinous and ruthless crimes against humanity. These acts of violence have the potential to destroy KZN’s image as a tourist destination and deter foreign direct investment in our province,” continued Inkosi Buthelezi.
“Safety has always been an important prerequisite to attract national and international tourists as well as investors. If the situation is not dealt with swiftly, tourists from other countries would cancel their visits and this would not reflect well economically on the KZN tourism industry. Long-term effects would be difficult to turn around because visitors and investors plan well in advance. Our economy is already taking strain and we cannot afford to have any negative influences that will hamper our potential to grow,” added Inkosi Buthelezi.
“KZN presently enjoys a good reputation of being a tourism destination of choice by other countries. Right now the GDP is about R25billion. We must do whatever is necessary to protect that reputation and build investor confidence. Foreign direct investments will create much-needed local jobs that will in turn reduce poverty. Reducing unemployment and poverty will in turn reduce crime. These knock-on effects will result in a peaceful nation that can take its place in the international community as a safe destination for tourists as well as investors,” concluded Inkosi Buthelezi.
The IFP further calls on the international community to avoid indiscriminately advising its citizens to refrain from visiting or investing in South Africa.
Issued by:
Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, MPL,
IFP Spokesperson on Economic Development and Tourism, 072 390 6112
For Media Enquiries:
IFP KZN Provincial Legislature Media Liaison Officer,
Mr Phendulani Biyase, 073 024 5675