In a powerful step towards ensuring the safety of both local and international tourists, the Department of Tourism, in collaboration with South African National Parks (SANParks), has appointed 250 participants as part of the Tourism Safety Monitor Programme. This strategic initiative reflects South Africa’s growing commitment to creating a safe, welcoming, and secure tourism environment across the country’s renowned national parks.
What is the Tourism Safety Monitor Programme?
The Tourism Safety Monitor Programme is a flagship project introduced by the Department of Tourism as part of its broader efforts to boost tourism safety, reduce crime against tourists, and enhance visitor experiences at key tourist destinations. This initiative falls under the aiming not only to strengthen safety but also to create jobs, particularly for youth.
With over 250 individuals now appointed to serve in national parks, the programme will see monitors deployed to high-traffic tourist areas where they will assist with:
- Monitoring and reporting safety threats,
- Offering guidance and information to tourists,
- Providing visible patrols to deter criminal activity,
- Supporting rangers and security personnel in maintaining a safe environment.
Requirements:
- Be a South African citizen (Certified copy of an Identity Document).
- Be unemployed youth between the ages of 18 to 35.
- Be in possession of a matric certificate or any equivalent qualifications.
- Be literate and conversant in English.
- Tertiary qualifications in tourism or environmental-related fields will be an added advantage.
- Stay within a 40km – 100km radius of the attractions/ sites/National Park. Proof of residence will be required (e.g. municipality bill or letter from a tribal authority or ward councillor.
- Be able to work flexible hours (e.g., weekends, public holidays and as-and-when required.
- Have a passion or interest in the tourism sector.
- Must have own reliable transport to and from workplace/ station.
- Where possible, accommodation will be provided in camps away from the access gate.
- Shortlisted candidates may be subjected to fitness tests, which may include: 2,4 km run, ability to do 25 pushups and 25 sit-ups, which should be done within a specific time frame.
- Successful candidates are then granted an interview.
Strategic Impact on Tourism and Employment
Tourism is a major economic contributor in South Africa, and safety concerns have, at times, hindered growth in this sector. The deployment of 250 safety monitors is a game-changing development, intended to inspire confidence among tourists while simultaneously addressing unemployment challenges.
These appointments are also aligned with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to improve service delivery and create youth employment opportunities, particularly in the context of South Africa’s post-COVID recovery efforts. Each participant will receive training, a monthly stipend, and skills development opportunities that will benefit them even beyond the duration of the programme.
How to Apply:
APPLY FOR THE SANPARKS TOURISM SAFETY MONITORS PROGRAMME (X250 POSTS) HERE
Implementation and Training
Before deployment, all appointed monitors undergo comprehensive training in:
- Basic safety and security procedures,
- Customer service and hospitality,
- Conflict resolution,
- Communication and tourism information management.
The monitors will be easily identifiable in their official uniforms and stationed in strategic tourist hotspots across Kruger National Park, Table Mountain National Park, Addo Elephant Park, and several other key SANParks sites.
A Safer Future for South African Tourism
The SANParks Tourism Safety Monitor Programme is more than a temporary solution—it is a long-term investment in South Africa’s tourism infrastructure. It supports the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan and strengthens collaboration between the public sector, private sector, and communities.
With the appointment of 250 new monitors, tourists can now enjoy their visits with greater peace of mind, knowing that trained personnel are present to assist, guide, and ensure a secure experience in South Africa’s natural wonders.
This initiative not only reinforces safety in tourism but also exemplifies transformative job creation through partnerships between government and conservation agencies.
CLOSING DATE: 30 JULY 2025
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