OnTap Magazine

by the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille Tourism is a key part of the South African economy. Our top-notch hospitality, favourable weather, vibrant cities, beautiful landscapes, and unique wildlife are just a few examples of what makes South Africa an attractive destination. The Department of Tourism believes there is still so much untapped potential for tourism in our country. We can, collectively, take the sector’s performance to greater heights, creating meaningful economic growth and more jobs for our people. We have come a long way in bouncing back from the Covid-19 pandemic. Recent figures are truly encouraging. StatsSA's data reveals that our tourism sector is on a rapid path to recovery and although we are not yet at pre-COVID travel numbers, we are edging closer, but that requires work. Between January and December 2022, we saw nearly 5.7 million visitors gracing our shores, including four million from Africa. This was a significant 152.6% increase from 2021. It is in this spirit of building on this success that we welcome initiatives that invite people to share uniquely South African products and experiences. Beer is deeply rooted in South African culture. It has a rich and varied history, from the popular Umqombothi in townships to trendy new beers produced by craft brewers. Responsible, mindful drinking has a place in our tourism offering. Beer fosters a sense of togetherness and hospitality. In true Mzansi fashion we can invite tourists to enjoy the distinctive tastes of African brewing. Opportunities abound for visitors to explore and learn about the brewing process, ingredients and cultural significance of beer in local communities. Although our country is traditionally associated with wine tourism, the development of beer tourism can benefit us all. There is scope for all types of visitors to South Africa. Variety, energy and choice is after all what makes us a valued travel destination. There are more than 180 craft breweries in South Africa. Domestic and international tourists are spoilt for choice. Even in the names of the breweries the diverse beauty of our country is echoed - Tsitsikamma Micro Brewery, 1000 Hills Brewing Company, Zwakala Brewery, Stellenbrau, Cederberg Brewery. As minister, my engagements with the tourism sector have been focussed on how government and all partners in the private sector can work together to find solutions aand grow tourism exponentially. We know that through tourism we can help create cultural exchanges, promote understanding, and break down stereotypes. This can help to build bridges between different communities and contribute to the peaceful coexistence of different cultures. Responsible beer tourism can also help create jobs and boost the local economy. It can promote sustainability and cultural preservation. Locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices can contribute to the preservation of ecosystems and cultural heritage. Furthermore, it can assist in achieving government's goal of diversifying the tourism sector. South Africa has an abundance of diverse tourism offerings, from rich cultural experiences to thrilling adventures in nature. In a sense, we have it all, but we should be committed to doing more to grow our tourism numbers so that we can showcase our nation as the true treasure that it is, and help uplift our fellow citizens through the generation of jobs and an increase of foreign spending. The Department of Tourism therefore looks forward to working with the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), to promote responsible beer tourism, and in particular in supporting small craft breweries, in a way that encourages tourists to visit and support these small businesses but do drink safely and responsibly. A CHEER TOGROWING TOURISMTOGETHER ontapmag.co.za | Spring 2023 | 7