USA issues its citizens with travel safety advisory for South Africa amid crime concerns

702's Bongani Bingwa is joined by Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.

Listen below:

South Africa has become the latest country to be slapped with Level 2 travel advisory by the United States (US).

The country is warning its citizens to exercise increased caution when travelling to SA due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.

France, Germany, and even Thailand are in the same advisory boat.

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So, is it accurate to say South Africa is being unfairly singled out, or is the advisory based on the realities of crime here?

De Lille says it was 'very unfortunate'  in that instead of poking holes in Trump's claims of a white genocide, the South African delegation during their recent trip to the White house focused on crime.

"When we put out these messages, we must put them out in context."

- Patricia de Lille, Tourism Minister

"Yes, we understand that travellers have concerns."

- Patricia de Lille, Tourism Minister

So, what message would Patricia de Lille have preferred the South African delegation to deliver on the issue of crime during their visit to the White House?

"To reaffirm our government's unwavering commitment to ensuring safety and enjoyment and comfort of all visitors to our country."

- Patricia de Lille, Tourism Minister

"We continue to make crime a national priority, and for tourists we actively address these through a range of coordinated efforts."

- Patricia de Lille, Tourism Minister

De Lille insists most tourists to South Africa come and go safely.

"The travel demand from the United States remains very robust."

- Patricia de Lille, Tourism Minister

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