Disabled citizens prioritised as tourism sector looks to improve accessibility

South Africa aims to make tourism accessible to those with disabilities. Photo: Pixabay

South African Tourism has decided to take a stance against the inaccessibility for the disabled within its sector. The sector has identified that amenities in certain buildings have made it difficult for those with disabilities. They are, therefore, determined to change these spaces to accommodate everyone and as it should be!

A playground made accessible to those who are disabled. Photo: Pixabay

Tourism inaccessible to the disabled

Able-bodied people may not think twice about the inaccessibility to certain spaces such as shops, restaurants, bathrooms, hotel rooms and public transport for the disabled, however, once you do, you’ll realise that it’s quite the task for them to get into certain spots in and around their city.

“Tourism is open for all to enjoy; however, persons living with disabilities still face challenges such as inaccessible hotel and accommodation establishments,” said the Acting Chief Quality Bureau Office, Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGSCA), Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo.

Advocacy

In order to bring awareness to the issue regarding inaccessibility to the disabled, the sector reviews how to make changes in the South African tourism industry on 3 December, the International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

Kotze-Nhlapo concluded by saying, “As a tourism industry we need to pull together for more meaningful investments into the socio-economic building blocks which will reduce the barriers that prevent persons living with disabilities from travelling.”

Although the discussion about bringing accessibility to those with disabilities is not a rare occurrence within the South African Tourism sector and changes are slowly brought into the industry, it is important to use the International Day for Persons with Disabilities as a day to focus on those who deserve the representation and accessibility to the things we all enjoy.

The hope is to see an easily accessible South Africa, beyond just the tourism sector. It is important that people with disabilities are well-represented and have access to all things in the country without having to even think about it.

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