Sun International & TBCSA Welcome Easing of Lockdown Restrictions

Major African gaming operator Sun International and the TBCSA (Tourism Business Council of South Africa) have welcomed the move to Level 1 Covid Restrictions for South Africa, which includes opening of borders to international travelers, as well as increased operational hours for casinos.

SUN INTERNATIONAL

“The move to level 1 lockdown restrictions is a relief, especially relaxing the curfew, permitting leisure facilities to allow 50% of capacity, and allowing larger gatherings from midnight on 20 September. This means our entertainment and conferencing facilities can begin to operate again,” said Graham Wood: Sun International Group COO Hospitality.

“Our casinos have been trading since July but the news that international borders will be gradually opened from 1 October is encouraging, as this gives greater clarity to the industry. The road ahead will not be easy but we can now plan for the recovery of the hospitality and conferencing segments of our business. This is especially important for our key properties such as The Palace, Sun City, The Table Bay Hotel, The Maslow Sandton, the Wild Coast Sun and The Boardwalk. Our Covid-19 health and safety protocols are firmly embedded in our operational procedures and we remain committed to ensuring the health and safety of all of our customers and staff,” said Wood. With restrictions on inter-provincial and international travel being lifted, new winds have been thrust in the sails of the tourism and hospitality industry. Months in lockdown have enabled the sector to prepare to operate at full capacity and has allowed for further measures to be put in place through comprehensive industry standard protocols that allow travellers and patrons to travel and eat safely.

TBCSA

The Tourism industry in South Africa supports 1.5m jobs and contributes 8.6% to the GDP and has suffered significant losses during this time, however the industry is ready for the challenge to revive South Africa’s economy, and rebuilding the industry.

The timeous arrival of the new level will allow the industry to take advantage of the peak holiday travel season and catapult its resuscitation. A win for travellers, suppliers and the entire tourism value chain. “We would like to call upon the industry to come together, now more than ever as we work towards the recovery of our industry. We welcome the decision by the President and it further shows what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together, for a common goal. Let’s look to the future and continue to engage.” Said Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, CEO of TBCSA.