The easing of restrictions under level 4 of the national lockdown, which came into effect from 01 May, have enabled the hospitality industry to begin its recovery process – albeit slowly.

The restrictions under Level 4, gazetted by the national government, allow restaurants to resume business for home delivery only. An estimated 20% of the tourism industry are employed in the food and beverage sector, so allowing restaurants to start operating again is a welcome first step.

All businesses that reopen are expected to align themselves with the requirements for safe working conditions, and to train their staff on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“The tourism industry as a whole is one of the largest job creators in South Africa, so there is some urgency to help businesses re-open as soon as it is responsibly safe to do so.”

The tourism industry as a whole is one of the largest job creators in South Africa, so there is some urgency to help businesses re-open as soon as it is responsibly safe to do so.

Towards this goal, FEDHASA, the national trade association for the hospitality industry, is lobbying with regional and national governments to help guide further easing of trade restrictions in the hospitality industry. This includes the promotion of strict safety protocols that FEDHASA has developed for the sector.

Lee Zama (pictured), the CEO of FEDHASA, says, “Delegations are engaging at the highest level around the issues of COVID -19 safety in our operations, funding and trade restrictions. While much uncertainty remains at this time, we are committed to representing the hospitality industry in our role as their voice.”