Canadian strategic consultant and author Anita Mendiratta, who in March 2011 launched her book, Come Closer, on the importance of global tourism in the social, economic and diplomatic development of nations assisted Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) with the development of the organisation’s strategic planning process during 2008.
NMBT CEO Mandlakazi Skefile said Mendiratta’s book “Come Closer: How Tourism Is Shaping the Future of Nations”, offered travel professionals insight into the far-reaching impacts of tourism and how nations were coming together through tourism in ways previously unimagined.
“NMBT met Anita at a tourism network session. It was clear that she had vast experience in the industry. So when the opportunity arose that NMBT needed to develop its strategy for 2008 – 2011, Anita was approached,” said Skefile
Mendiratta’s book covers topics from the role of government, diplomacy, tourism investment, destination branding to niche tourism development, media, tourism safety and green tourism. “Tourism is ranked as one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world and we have to ensure that future generations also benefit. We see how the business world is expanding into new markets and how tourists are exploring new horizons.”
Skefile said travel experts predicted that world travel looked set to improve in 2011, driven by improving world economic conditions and higher consumer spending.
“In view of this, an important aspect Mendiratta touches on is that there needs to be a fine balance between how government, business and the tourism industry need to work together to create shared, sustainable destination growth. The support of our national, provincial and local governments is pivotal for the success of tourism.
“It is clear that if we want our city to become a global player in the tourism industry – embracing caring and responsible tourism initiatives that create sustainable growth, provide jobs and help alleviate poverty – is essential.
Despite the worldwide economic recession, Skefile said experts predicted that Africa would enjoy good growth rates in tourism. Recently released statistics by the Minister of Tourism, Mr Marthinus van Schalkwyk confirmed that 8 073 552 arrived in South Africa in 2010.
“In order to rise above the present and future global financial instability and the fierce competition between destinations, Nelson Mandela Bay needs to make sure that it appeals to a number of different markets through well-packaged tourism products and offerings,” said Skefile.
Mendiratta believes the tourism authority can do it by leveraging its unique selling points. “I recall with great affection, working with the team at NMBT in the final days of 2008. It is a wonderful destination, ably managed by people who hold such pride in their destination. Blessed by the name of South Africa’s greatest leader and the father of the nation, Nelson Mandela Bay is a place which brings to life the spirit of freedom. In addition to its iconic name, rich history and breath-taking environment, Nelson Mandela Bay proudly boasts the Big Seven, reinforcing the area’s unique position as a place where freedom is celebrated, naturally,” said Mendiratta.
Anita Mendiratta image ‘borrowed’ from enviroaero on Flickr.
Related Links: Cachet Consulting | Anita Mendiratta Blog.
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Why would tourists come to P.E. (there is no “Nelson Mandela Bay”, it is a figment of the imagination of the ANC & its supporters & those businessmen who ride on the back of the Mandela name & its image. What is there to see in P.E. Colonial & other history has been wiped out by the likes of Denton, the municipality & its Development arm under Vosges (aka Denton supporter) & become a rasta haven for various artists & Bohemian communities.
I agree & what a waste of money to get an outsider to tell us about our own tourism & how to go about it. Typical municipal waste.
Well, let us all see the strategy, and the extent to which our Tourism team has implemented it…. After all, the timeline ends in 2011, so they should be able to show us quite a bit of progress…. then we can decide for ourselves whether this was worthwhile or not.
What a pity to hear people from PE talking so negatively about a city that some of us from Germany who had an opportunity to visit there, consider it such a beautiful and tranquil city and definately one of the best in South Africa.