Help Knysna rebuild, do tourism

#KnysnaFire continues to burn, fanned by strong winds ahead of cold front slowly making way up southern https://t.co/mDguMDxqU6: Koos Britz pic.twitter.com/3gkT0KGq4M

— VWS Wildfires (@vwsfires) June 7, 2017

South African Tourism joins all citizens, stakeholders, businesses and the country at large in support of the communities affected by the fires in Knysna and surrounding areas as they rebuild their homes, town and tourist facilities. Minister of Tourism, Tokozile Xasa says: “The fires that tore through Knysna last week were nothing short of devastating. Our hearts go out to all those who lost loved ones and were affected.

This was once someone's home. Zuma & @WesternCapeGov to visit site in a moment #KnysnaFire #KnysnaRebuilds @bmsmad pic.twitter.com/gofRiqJyJ6

— Ntomboxolo Somdaka (@NMakoba) June 15, 2017

“Many travellers are attracted to the region’s unspoiled terrain, picturesque views and homely, welcoming nature of the people and to this end, we profusely thank the brave firemen, emergency personnel, local residents and government officials, who worked tirelessly to quell the flames and accommodate displaced people. Their actions helped to save the affected areas from further devastation and put on full show, the spirit of Ubuntu for which South Africans are known for,” she said.

Knysna will require tourism to rebuild

The community of Knysna and the entire Garden Route region, she added, remains dependent on tourism to thrive and survive and now it will require tourism to rebuild.

One of the many attractions and experiences that will go ahead is the annual Pick ‘n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival from 7-16 July 2017, which offers food lovers and sporting enthusiasts a bonanza of fun activities. This festival warms up every winter with food and wine-related events, off-the-wall sports and adventure, and fun activities for the whole family - helping travellers to do tourism and contribute to the restoration of the town.

The organisers, along with Knysna Tourism, have assured festival-goers and tourists that they will be able to find accommodation and plenty of things to do and see, in around the town.

RonPorter via pixabay - Knysna lagoon

Back to tourism business

Sisa Ntshona, South African Tourism’s CEO also thanked South African organisations for stepping in to meet the humanitarian needs of the communities affected and offer the necessary support. Efforts from SA Tourism’s side would be geared towards reassuring local tourists that it is back to business for the tourism region.

“Domestic tourism is a key driver of tourism growth in South Africa. We need local travellers to support the region’s tourism products and offerings, allowing them to get back to business because, now more than ever, the town and its surrounds require the income and business.” During this time, he adds, South African Tourism plans on allocating a fair portion of its marketing investment to drive tourism communication and marketing activities to Knysna, focusing on key attractions and also, the lesser known places and offerings.

We Do Tourism: There are some things locals can and should do to help:

Don’t cancel your plans: School holidays (inland) are looming and the much-loved town has always been a favourite for families with young children. It is also a favourite for lovers of the outdoor and small coastal town experiences. Do not cancel plans and if you didn’t have plans, put Knysna on your itinerary.

Play your part: Be a tourist, but also be a model citizen. We have read accounts of hotel establishments opening their doors to those in need and of strangers helping others with beds, food, and water. The kindness and generosity shown during this time embody how well-equipped South Africans are to Do Tourism.

Share your Knysna stories; Now more than ever the global community needs to know that it is back to business for this small town. Documenting and sharing your experiences of a Knysna getting back on its feet will go a long way in attracting others to visit the town.

Tourists needing to change, find or verify accommodation options may contact the 24 hours SATIB number +27 1000 70230, the Sedgefield Tourism Offices on +27 44 343 2007 or Knysna Tourism on +27 44 382 5510 for assistance.