FEDHASA has welcomed today’s announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa, removing the requirement for fully vaccinated inbound travellers to provide a negative PCR test to enter South Africa. Says Rosemary Anderson, FEDHASA National Chairperson: “Many destinations have already removed the requirement for vaccinated travellers to furnish negative PCR tests.
“Accessibility plays a major role in travellers’ decision-making when selecting a destination and the PCR test has always been a major stumbling block hampering inbound travellers, who do not always have easy and affordable access to PCR testing in their own country.”
The cost and inconvenience of mandatory PCR tests are exacerbated if travellers are visiting multiple destinations in Southern Africa over the general two-week or 10-day holiday period, adds Anderson.
The news is welcome relief for hospitality businesses which are fighting to rebuild, preserve jobs and contribute to the economy, she adds.
“Mass unemployment is one of the biggest problems facing South Africa and our sector holds the key to economic growth and job creation. For us to realise our potential and be the catalyst our economy needs, decisive decisions based on science and global best practice are required sooner, rather than later,” Anderson says.
“FEDHASA is pleased that South Africa has aligned itself with other major international destinations which require only proof of vaccination for travellers to visit. We must now spread the word that South Africa is open and ready to welcome visitors to our shores,” Anderson concludes.
