In response to a parliamentary question by the FF Plus, the Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, admitted that white people in the tourism industry are being passed over to facilitate the transformation of the industry.
That is without taking into account the number of black people who are employed by white-owned businesses who are currently struggling to make ends meet and who will also suffer the consequences should these businesses have to close their doors.
To deny government aid based on race to an industry that is absolutely vital for growing the country's economy, especially in a post-Covid-19 context, is discrimination and comes down to racism.
By focusing on supporting only black entrepreneurs or companies with more than 51% black ownership, the focus is on individuals instead of on the industry or the economy.
The irony of this is that the tourism industry is dependent on tourists from all countries and that they spend their money here with no regard for race.
According to President Cyril Ramaphosa, tourism contributes 2,9% directly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of South Africa and 8,6% indirectly. At present, the industry also provides jobs to 1,5 million people.
That can decrease very quickly if everyone in the industry does not get the help they need.
It is the government's duty to create an environment that is safe and stimulates economic growth. That will benefit everyone, black and white.
The Minister's admission that the selective aid to the industry is actually just an attempt to transform the industry means that ultimately, the economy in general will pay the price.
Without economic growth, everyone becomes poorer. But the ANC is so obsessed with colour and race that it does not seem to realise this.
;
