NATIONAL NEWS - The tourism industry has suffered a hard knock following the devastating fires that have ripped through the Knysna region.
Seven people have been killed in the devastating blaze and thousands were forced to flee their homes.
Authorities ensured that tourists who were booked into affected hotels and guest houses were accommodated elsewhere.
Thousands of firefighters are still on the ground as they attempt to extinguish the fire which have been raging since last week Tuesday.
Western Cape Economic Opportunities MEC Alan Windy says that 24 tourism facilities have been affected by the Eden District blaze.
“Tourism is now more important than ever before. We need to ensure that we sustain job losses following the fire. While business rebuild, we need tourism to boost this town. Our next big event is the Knysna Oyster Festival. Let’s make it a better festival than ever before.”
