South Africa plans to train 2,300 monitors across the country to enhance security in tourism areas, announced Deputy Minister of Tourism Maggie Sotyu on Tuesday.

Sotyu made this announcement in Polokwane, the capital of Limpopo Province, during the launch of the National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE), which will take place from Tuesday to Thursday.

"For this financial year, the department aims to train 450 unemployed youth in various skill development initiatives and 2,300 tourism monitors funded by the Expanded Public Works Program," Sotyu stated.

Last year, South Africa allocated 174.5 million rand (approximately 9.9 million U.S. dollars) to train 2,300 tourism safety monitors, who were subsequently assigned to various tourism destinations across nine provinces. Additionally, 276 small, medium, and micro enterprises in the tourism sector received training on occupational health and safety standards to ensure safe tourism practices, according to Sotyu.

"It is crucial that we collaborate with our partners to identify the key skills needed in the sector. Our strategy is to help individuals enhance their skills and prepare for the evolving job market, thereby contributing to the reduction of poverty, unemployment, and inequality," Sotyu emphasized.

The tourism department also announced that around 10,000 learners, educators, and unemployed youth are anticipated to take part in this year's NTCE.

In response to a recent increase in robberies targeting foreign tourists, South Africa is taking steps to improve security and safety at its tourism centers.