Accessibility in Tourism

Accessibility in Tourism

The tourism sector has been hit hard by the pandemic. As the country opens up, creating an awareness of tourism offerings that are accessible for people with disabilities, can influence key markets to participate.

Universal Accessibility Hub, a non-profit organisation, is eager to see the tourism sector thrive and believe that their awareness campaign will influence the sector and develop great opportunities for all abilities.

The organisation advocate for and promote universal accessibility in South Africa and globally. The founding member, Ms Shama Nathoo who is a board member of the Tourism Grading Council for South Africa said: “the call for all South African’s and tourism establishments to share images that promotes accessibility is part of a broader awareness campaign focusing on integration and contributes to achieving an accessible tourism industry”. Ms Nathoo added that the organisation’s vision is to profile South Africa as a leading universal accessible destination for a disabled traveler.

Minister Kubayi-Ngubane at the Portfolio Committee on Tourism, 6 October 2020 said that it looked at the challenges which COVID-19 had posed on the industry with the results showing 99% of businesses affected by the pandemic.

The national call for shared images showcasing universal access in tourism that promotes participation of people with disabilities for an inclusive experience with a location setting will be linked to the Universal Accessibility Hub online platform https://uahub.org.za for ease of access for travelers with disabilities. The closing date for submission of images is on 23 November 2020. The organisation’s exhibition showcasing accessibility in tourism will be held at Artscape Theatre, on 3rd December, International Day for Persons with Disabilities.

Please contact Shama Nathoo, Managing Director of Universal Accessibility Hub for further information +27 82 902 9118, email: shama@uahub.org.za