Chinese Consul General in Cape Town Ren Faqiang Attends Commendation Ceremony for Table Mountain Rescue Operation

On the evening of 23 May 2026, a Chinese female tourist became stranded on Table Mountain in Cape Town. Staff from the Cape Town Wilderness Search and Rescue Team, Cape Town Tourism, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company, South African National Parks , and other organizations worked together through the night, overcoming difficult conditions to carry out a successful rescue. The tourist has since returned safely to China.

On 29 May, the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Cape Town held a commendation ceremony to express its sincere gratitude and respect to the 19 rescuers who participated in the operation.

Consul General Ren Faqiang presented certificates of appreciation to the rescuers, commending their outstanding professionalism and selfless dedication. He noted that the rescue operation vividly demonstrated the spirit of mutual support between the peoples of China and South Africa, as well as South Africa's spirit of Ubuntu.

A representative of the rescue team stated that ensuring the safety of visitors is their responsibility and expressed their willingness to maintain close cooperation with the Chinese Consulate General in future rescue operations involving Chinese nationals. During the ceremony, a video message of thanks from the rescued tourist, recorded after her return to China, was also played.

The event concluded successfully with a warm group photo session and friendly exchanges among participants.

The Consulate General reminds Chinese tourists to pay close attention to travel safety, join organized tour groups or travel with agencies whenever possible, and avoid hiking alone.