THE second phase of the R20m Tourism Relief Fund applications opened for financial assistance from distressed tourism businesses and operators in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday, September 27.
According to the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Ravi Pillay, the EDTEA, together with Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, will work closely with community tourism organisations (CTOs) and tourism formations to ensure that qualifying tourism businesses, that face distress, would be supported.
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“The first phase of the R20m fund only saw a total of R858 500 disbursed to support 29 qualifying tourism businesses and tour guides. This low uptake was a result of many applicants being disqualified due to noncompliance with the terms and conditions of the fund,” said Pillay.
Given the low number of successful applicants, and that there is still a budget available for the tourism relief fund, EDTEA said the second intake of applications would be considered, under revised selection criteria, to accommodate more tourism businesses.
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Pillay said the tourism relief programme forms part of government’s efforts to mitigate the effects the Covid-19 pandemic has had on the tourism sector.
“Through this fund, we hope to assist businesses to mitigate the effects of the pandemic, prevent job losses and get them back towards a path of stability. KwaZulu-Natal is a leading tourist destination whose success relies on a thriving sector that includes tour operators, accommodation establishments, restaurants, tourist guides, attractions and other tourist offerings. It is essential that the value chain works in its entirety,” said Pillay.
He encouraged businesses that were not successful in the first round to apply again.
Applications are now open and will close on October 29. Application forms are accessible online at www.kzntourismfund.co.za. A call centre has been set up to guide and provide information to applicants.
Contact 031 816 6610 between 08:00 and 16:30 from Monday to Friday. Alternatively, email kzntourismrelief@zulu.org.za.
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