By Nkosana Khumalo
Gqeberha, South Africa — Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Leader John Steenhuisen is scheduled to visit Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) on Monday, 28 October 2024, to engage with local leaders and stakeholders about the escalating crime in Gqeberha and its implications on tourism, particularly along the city’s once-vibrant beachfront. The visit underscores growing concerns from business owners, community leaders, and residents about safety issues that are impacting tourism and the local economy.
Charity McCord, Media Manager to the DA Federal Leader, highlighted the urgent need for action, saying, “The ongoing destruction of municipal assets on the beachfront continues to compromise the tourism industry.” She added that delayed repairs only exacerbate safety concerns, thereby impacting employment in tourism and related sectors.
Rising Crime in Nelson Mandela Bay
Recent crime statistics reveal that Nelson Mandela Bay, along with Buffalo City and the OR Tambo region, remains among the Eastern Cape’s most crime-affected areas. In particular, Gqeberha has witnessed increased incidents of murder, assault, and robbery, with gang-related violence becoming a significant issue in local schools and communities. The city’s northern areas, including Bethelsdorp and Gelvandale, are plagued by gang activity, often spilling over into nearby residential areas and schools, leaving residents fearful for their safety.
Provincial Police Commissioner Major-General Nomthetheleli Mene reported that while overall crime rates saw a slight decline in the Eastern Cape, Nelson Mandela Bay’s challenges persist due to high incidences of violent crime. With 113 reported incidents from 14th to 20th October 2024 alone, including theft, burglary, and assault, the situation remains dire. Despite additional police deployments, community members continue to demand further action to protect their neighbourhoods and restore confidence in local security.
The Impact on Tourism and the Local Economy
Gqeberha’s beachfront, once a major draw for tourists, has seen diminishing visitor numbers due to rising crime. Incidents of theft, vandalism, and public violence have deterred tourists and locals alike from visiting the area. DA Eastern Cape Provincial Leader Andrew Whitfield noted that addressing crime is essential for revitalising tourism and sustaining jobs in the metro. The area’s decline in tourism-related revenue has affected numerous local businesses, with many calling for urgent action to secure the region.
Steenhuisen’s delegation will include Provincial Chairperson Yussuf Cassim, PE Southwest Constituency Leader Retief Odendaal, and DA Shadow MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs, and Tourism Leander Kruger. Together, they aim to assess the situation firsthand, listen to community feedback, and propose solutions to restore safety and security along the beachfront.
Calls for Municipal Action
The DA has been vocal about the need for enhanced municipal responses to address crime and protect tourism. Whitfield emphasised that “Only when the metro takes crime and tourism seriously will the rest of South Africa and the world recognise Nelson Mandela Bay.” The DA has also pushed for technological solutions, such as increased CCTV surveillance and community-driven safety initiatives, to deter criminal activities.
In response to these issues, Nelson Mandela Bay Mayor Gary van Niekerk has pledged to improve safety and enhance police visibility, with a commitment to make the metro “the safest in South Africa” by Christmas. He announced plans to deploy 500 previously unused security cameras in high-crime areas as part of a larger initiative to curb crime in the city.
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