ACCOMMODATION INDUSTRY FACING GRUESOME HARDSHIP.  LET ALL PLAY OUR PART TO SAVE IT.

Lockdown regulations have caused economic hardship in the tourism industry and it continuous devastation is reaching a level of catastrophe, with a glimpse of silver lining due to the gradual easing of the regulations by Government which has allowed the sector to reopen and return to a semblance of normality.

The accommodation industry in the hospitality sector is still suffering the brunt of the lockdown regulations. From restrictions of most international guests coming into our country to the curfew which also contributes to discouraging many guests from visiting  establishments for a meal and over night bookings with tough restrictions to conferences and events which is not making the situation any better.

Consequently, many hotels, convention centres, conferences, resorts, bed and breakfasts and guesthouses and other key tourism products are looking down the proverbial barrel of a gun.

The Hospitality Sector is a major contributor to the South African economy and provides employment to more than a million employees. The future of this sector and its employees are in serious jeopardy. Therefore, domestic travel should be promoted more than ever before as it is our only chance of survival and to keep our country’s tourism establishments and accommodation in operation beyond COVID-19. The important of number of beds available per city will forever remain important as this is one of the key factors considered by event organisers and investors alike when deciding to stage a major event in our cities which are a major contribution in keeping a vibrant tourism economy in our cities with many other economic spinoffs and opportunities.

Not withholding the serious threat of this deadly pandemic. Our accommodation and tourism establishments are taking the health and safety of their guests and staff very seriously and are adhering to government regulations such as the wearing of masks, social distancing and regularly washing or sanitising of hands. In many instances going beyond this protocol in an attempt to protect the well-being of our staff and guests alike. Where individuals are discouraged and forbidden to enter the establishments when screening suggests that they might have symptoms of COVID-19. As iLawu Hospitality Group we have as from the 3 January 2021 implemented a major reinforcement of COVID-19 protocols in all our establishments and provided refresher training for our staff with upgraded PPE, full medical assistance and testing to the staff who are showing symptoms, more sanitising station in and around our properties with regular disinfection of surfaces and hot spots. We have further implemented zero tolerance on failure to enforce these important protocols for the safety of fellow staff and our valuable guests. Which may lead to disciplinary hearing and summary dismissal.

Therefore, we call on all South Africans to support our domestic tourism and accommodation in it time of crisis. If it is at all within your means: go out for a meal, have a cup of coffee, pamper yourself and loved ones at the spa or stay over for a night or two with family and colleagues, even spend more than what you would normally do and tip generously. Even more importantly share your positive experiences on your social media to encourage your circles to visit accommodation and other tourism related experiences. Where the experience was not so pleasant most tourism establishment have comment books or right to the owner and offer a constructive feedback and suggestion on how they can improve their products or services.

Let us take it upon ourselves to keep our local hospitality and accommodation open. Let us do that for them; but not only for them, also for ourselves, so that, when this crisis has passed, this sector will still exist for all of us to enjoy.  Take advantage of many discount and free night’s stay offered by many in an attempt to keep the industry alive. iLawu Hospitality Group through their website www.byilawu.co.za is offering lowest rates guaranteed on all their establishments of up to 40%. Take advantage of these offers and many more while contributing towards this noble cause in keeping the Zulu Kingdom and South African tourism alive.

Yours in Hospitality

Siphiwe Ngcobo (Mr)

Group Managing Director

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