South African Golf Summit to Be Held in April


Pressing issues in the golf and golf estate industry will come under the spotlight as international, national and provincial officials will participate in discussions at the third annual South African Golf Summit at Fancourt April 20-23.

Addressing the need for the golf industry to become a catalyst in addressing socioeconomic development in previously disadvantaged communities, Western Cape premier Ebrahim Rasool will deliver the keynote address as well as sit on a panel discussing the topic. In addition, Western Cape Minister of Environment, Planning and Economic Development Tasneem Essop will discuss requirements and procedures for Golf Course and Estate permit approval and join the debate surrounding environmental issues and socioeconomic development.

ABSA bank senior economist Jacques du Toit will discuss the impact that the relatively new National Credit Act (NCA) interest rates and power shortages can have on the golf estate and general property development economy in South Africa. South African Tourism Events General Manager Sugen Pillay will speak on the significance of the golf industry in the optimization of golf tourism in South Africa.

Other issues will include environmental sustainability and water management of golf courses, legislation on foreign land ownership in South Africa, and the financial viability of golf estates.

Fancourt CEO Ingrid Diesel said of the summit: "The local golf industry continues to play significant roles in the economy of the country in at least two important sectors: business and tourism. By engaging such top-class people, we ensure that all the vital issues are addressed properly and extensively."

The annual summit brings together key industry stakeholders including government, developers, operators and investors involved in the development of golf resorts, courses and estates. It has also become a popular networking platform for people in the industry and an important date on the local golfing calendar. For additional information, call Elmarie Fritz at 044 804 0037 or via email at reservations@fancourt.co.za, or visit www.sagolfsummit.com.