Cape Town - The City of Cape Town is expecting an influx of tourists this festive season, and the City and provincial government are getting ready for the influx of travellers.
According to the CEO of Cape Town Tourism, Enver Duminy, 1,56 million two-way seats between November 2022 and March 2023 are expected, generating a massive R7,9 billion in tourism spend.
“I am excited to share the good news that between November and December, we are expecting 184 international flights per week. This will increase to 191 flights per week between January and March next year. This amounts to approximately 1,56 million two-way seats between November 2022 and March 2023, generating a whopping R7,9 billion in tourism spend”.
Furthermore, the City’s mayco member for economic growth, James Vos, said that the City is expecting at least 75 cruise ship visits, carrying more than 195 000 visitors. With almost R100 million in total estimated passenger spend per port visit.
“We can expect several jobs to be created in both downstream and upstream industries.”
Local businesses and entrepreneurs are encouraged to take advantage of the various opportunities the influx of tourists will bring, as well as the various initiatives offered by the city ensuring entrepreneurs are equipped.
“We help local businesses to connect with these tourists by giving them the training to shape their operations for this market. For example, CTT has rolled out a Neighbourhood Experience Development training manual to help guide SMMEs in developing their businesses, and to encourage neighbourhood readiness. CTT also hosts business development workshops and networking events for their 1000-plus members, and the City of Cape Town further supports entrepreneurs with business services and a series of free up-skilling classes”. City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth. Alderman Vos said.
The MEC of Finance and Economic Opportunities said that the two airports in the Western Cape had made an immense recovery from 2021
“Cape Town International Airport and George Airport have both reported an impressive recovery with a busy flight schedule predicted for the upcoming festive season. Visitor attractions experienced a 76% growth in the number of visitors when compared to the same month in 2021, while hotel occupancy is recovering at a rate of 83%.”
The City has also begun its beach operations by deploying lifeguards, ensuring safety on Cape Town beaches.
“The summer season is fast approaching, and a key part of our preparedness is to ensure the many beautiful beaches and swimming pools across our metro are safe and ready to welcome residents and visitors. We have lifeguards recruited put through their paces, and I want to call on beachgoers and pool visitors to please also play their part and be responsible when enjoying their time in the sun. By working together, we can ensure that everyone has a great time and stays safe over the festive season,” said mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
The City has ensured that lifeguards are deployed at 32 swimming pools and 29 beaches.
“Lifeguards are working even when there are no active incidents for them to respond to. Part of their duties is to conduct observations and spot potential hazards before they become life-threatening. Lifeguards play an important role in ensuring the safety of bathers, and they're often the first responders in an emergency at the beach,” said mayco member for community services and health Patricia van der Ross.
Residents and tourists have been cautioned not to bring alcohol to beaches to ensure their safety in beaches this festive season.
As far as safety is concerned, mayco member for safety and security JP Smith said that the City has a comprehensive festive season safety plan each year, details of which will be made public soon.
The Department of Economic Development and Tourism has confirmed that they will be producing safety information collateral that will be distributed to accommodation establishments, major tourism attractions, airports, tourism offices, hospitals and police stations across the province.
The Department of Community Safety will deploy 150 Peace Officers to coastal municipalities during the festive season. The Law Enforcement Advancement Programme will form part of the SAPS Western Cape Safer Festive Season programme.
The provincial government and the City will be making an important announcement in the coming week regarding further safety measures.