During the visit, the committee inspected the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse precinct development in the Overberg and met with project stakeholders to review progress. Members were informed that the project is 99% complete and ready for launch. The committee last visited the site in 2017 when the project began. Phase 1, completed in 2018, included the construction of an Africa map at the southernmost tip of the continent, paving a one-kilometre stretch of road, rehabilitating terrain, and realigning the boardwalk.
The committee expressed satisfaction with the development, noting that it will provide critical infrastructure support for the lighthouse precinct, including a gateway to the park, a 60-seater restaurant, ablution facilities, and an interpretation centre. The project received funding of R54 990 000 and is expected to draw more tourists to the area.
The oversight team also visited the Arniston Hotel and Spa, a participant in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme. The hotel has installed over 100 solar panels to reduce high electricity costs and employs more than 150 local staff. It also runs training programmes for youth to prepare them for work in the hotel industry and supports local economic development by sourcing fresh produce from local fishermen and vegetable growers.
The committee noted the hotel owner’s appeal for government support to market the hotel internationally, improve tourist safety measures, and address the high electricity costs required to operate the facility.
In response, the committee committed to engaging the Minister of Tourism to ensure the hotel industry receives the necessary support to attract international visitors.