They are interested in knowing more about the South African
story; which in many ways is a story of the triumph of the human
spirit.
Alternatively, part of the proceeds from the tourism levy, as it is
currently structured, should be made available for the benefit of
heritage and cultural institutions.
They want to learn more and draw inspiration from the “South
African miracle”; how as a people we managed to turn our
backs on our deeply divided and painful past to a shared future.
We look forward to engaging with all stakeholders on how best
we can ensure sustained funding for the maintenance of our
cultural and heritage visitor attractions, including through the
use of a heritage levy
This we have seen on a number of occasions where we have
taken local exhibitions and productions, telling the South African
story, to overseas markets.
The success of Mies Julie at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe
Festival, the many local films winning international acclaim and
the recent success by South African artists taking part in the
South Africa Season in France, are some of the examples we
can show to this effect.
Also of interest to visitors, both local and international, are our
eight World Heritage sites.
As a Department, we are working closely with the Africa World
Heritage Fund, not only to maintain our existing World Heritage
sites but also to submit more of our places of Outstanding
Universal Value for nomination to the UNESCO World Heritage
List.
In this regard, we note with appreciation that the Liberation
Heritage Route, which links sites, events and individuals of
significance to the South African struggle for liberation, has been
included in UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites.
Working together we can improve the appeal of our cultural and
heritage tourist attractions; ensuring that they attract even more
visitors and offer an even greater visitor experience.
One specific area we can collaborate on is ensuring that the