The tourism inconvenience of the Ebola epidemic: lessons for the South African tourism sector

Abstract

This paper explores certain aspects within the tourism sector, a sector that is highlighted in the South African National Development Plan as one of the key contributors to the success of vision 2030. A particular emphasis is laid on the envisaged role of tourism as one of the key drivers of economic growth. The argument put forward is that there is a need to ensure that when a sector is identified as critical in the growth of the economy, such identification should take due cognisance of the inherent risks involved. Following the identification of risks, it is prudent to proffer a multi-sectoral approach as a possible solution towards the mitigation of possible risks. This viewpoint is ostensibly put forth in light of the recent Ebola virus disease outbreaks that potentially threatened the tourism sector in South Africa.

Keywords

• Ebola epidemic
• South African Tourism Industry
• disease
• National Development Plan