Speaking at the Consumer Travel Fair in Berne, Switzerland last week, Joyce Witbooi, Western Cape Minister of Tourism and Gambling, said she was overwhelmed by the understanding that the Swiss people has shown towards the problems the tourism industry face in the Western Cape.

The SA Embassy in Switzerland, in partnership with SAA and Swiss Tourism hosted the event, which every year attracts about 50 000 visitors. Minister Witbooi shared the stage with Dr Tanya Abrahamse of the SA Tourism Business Council.

Addressing about 300 attendees, who gave her a standing ovation, Minister Witbooi said the Cape was a year-round destination with highlights in every region.

On a question about safety in the Cape, Minister Witbooi said "It remains most unfortunate if you become a victim of crime, despite all the security measures put in place. Safety guidelines for our visitors are to be found at airports, tourism offices and hotspots. Tourists should take the sensible precautions they would in any major city."

On a question whether the Cape has become a European destination in Africa, she told the audience that whilst the Cape is the gateway to Africa, the region is globally connected. "The Western Cape's top ten export destinations are in Western Europe and much of our economic growth are generated in European markets. It follows that European investment had played an integral role in the growth of the Cape economy, and the history and development of the Cape are closely linked with Europe.

"But" Minister Witbooi continued: "Ours is a province and a people who are fiercely proud to be South African. Ours is a heritage and a culture rooted in the African soil and reared under African sun." Minister Witbooi told the audience that tourists are interested in sea, sun and sand, but they also want to explore and discover their souls. Our scenic beauty, our history and diverse cultural heritage offer the opportunity of self-discovery."

Other activities at the fair included promotional movies of South Africa, Zulu and Indian dance by the Surialanga Dance Company and a traditional costumes bouquet.

Ministry of Tourism and Gambling: Western Cape

Ministerie van Toerisme en Dobbelary: Wes-Kaap

E-pos/mail: Hélène Rossouw

Tel: 021 483 6071

Fax: 021 483 6081