Tourism sector to launch app to keep 'tourists safe'

De Lille made the announcement during a media engagement in Sandton on Monday.

South Africa's tourism safety has been in the spotlight following the killing of a German tourist in Mpumalanga last year.

The name of the app is called SECURA.

"I am pleased that after a detailed discussion today, we can report that the Department of Tourism, provincial departments, tourism associations and private stakeholders have agreed that we will address Tourism Safety issues in partnership with one another,” De Lille said.

"It is the intention of the private sector to roll out a safety app called SECURA, which is solely dedicated to tourist safety nationally. The app integrates affordable emergency medical responses, breakdowns and crime-related incident assistance," said de Lille.

The app includes SECURA’s panic button – which is accessible via mobile phone or in the form of a panic button on the app which connects travellers and tourism stakeholders to hundreds of emergency responders.

Tourism Business Council of South Africa's Michael Tollman says the app will be launched in July.

"The plan will not only reduce risks to tourism safety and security, but it will also ensure that many more tourists return home from their visit to South Africa with a positive view to share with their friends, family and on social media."

ALSO READ: