We are also proud to welcome our visitors from abroad and representatives of governments from so many countries. For we are aware that we are entrusted with a priceless asset that is valued not only by our own people, but by our region and people across the world. In commemorating this historic day, we do not forget those who had to surrender their land to make it possible, often through forcible removal, nor those who for generations were denied access to their heritage except as poorly rewarded labour. We recall these threads in our history not to decry the foresight of those who established the park, nor to diminish our enjoyment of it. We do so rather to reaffirm our commitment that the rural communities in and around our parks should also benefit from our natural heritage, and find in it an opportunity for their development.
Tourism occupies a strategic place in our overall strategy for reconstruction and development.
The rapid growth of this sector since our country was freed from apartheid confirms our confidence that tourism is destined to play a critical role in earning much-needed foreign exchange and creating jobs. It can help produce wealth which will strengthen our efforts to provide clean water, electricity, health-care and adequate housing to those who have been so long denied these basic amenities. Such assets as the Kruger National Park and our many other parks and tourist attractions, if developed within a framework of regional co-operation, can make a major contribution not only to our own country but to the whole of Southern Africa. Visitors who come to experience the wonders of this park are in easy reach of many spectacular offerings elsewhere in our region. In this regard it is satisfying to learn of the progress in discussions with Mozambican authorities to establish a single Park that links our countries and our peoples.