THE South African Tourism has put on record the supposed controversial deal of R33m promo by world acclaimed comedian Trevor Noah.
In its statement SAT confirmed it did not approve or authorise the alleged R33m television promo deal for renowned comedian.
Instead the deal was brought to Noah’s attention by the TBCSA and other private sectors within the tourism sector.
This follows rumours Noah had secured a deal earning him a whopping millions to be featured on a five-minute promo to endorse South Africa as a top tourist destination.
It is believed though, that the former US talk show host, has poured cold water on such allegations indicating “the deal was negotiated by various tourism stakeholders and TBCSA who wanted to promote the country”.
Tourism Business Council of SA (TBCSA) CEO Tshifhiwa Tshivhenga vehemently denied any government involvement.
“I am the owner of the project and it has nothing to do with government or portfolio committee. If we do the project, it will be a private sector initiative and we don’t report to government or Parliament,” he said.
Chairperson of Parliament’s tourism committee, Tandi Mahambehlala also questioned Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, on this matter during meeting in Parliament, who is reported to have said “I can tell you that in my last engagement, when I met with the chair of the tourism council… if you want anything on the matter with Trevor Noah, please contact them,” De Lille was quoted.
Mahambehlala also likened the Noah promo video to the controversial Tottenham Hotspur Football club marketing deal that was eventually cancelled, that was supposed to have cost nearly R1 billion for 3-years, with the agency.
Mahambehlala warned SA Tourism that Tourism Marketing South Africa levies, paid by the TBCSA to the entity, should not be used as a slush fund to commit financial malfeasance.
During Noah’s Savanna comedy shows in SA this past week, some of his fans were not impressed with the latest news and took to social media suggesting “send him back to America”, “Over-rated and not funny at all”, amongst others.
