The event brought together 120 stakeholders, including government leaders, academics, tourism operators, entrepreneurs, private industry players, exhibitors, university lecturers, students, and local secondary school learners, to address challenges and opportunities in the local tourism sector and connect Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) with students.
Held under the National Tourism Month theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the Imbizo aimed to activate the city’s Tourism Master Plan, promote inclusive growth, and strengthen cross-sector collaboration.
Done Louw, Sadie Isaacs, Dr Bruce Damons, Lisakhanya Femele, Minister Kganyago and Sakhile Ndlovu
Executive Mayor Councillor Babalwa Lobishe opened the Imbizo, highlighting tourism’s key role in job creation, small business support, and community development, while acknowledging recent declines in visitor numbers and economic impact.
Day One featured keynote speakers and academics focusing on tourism research and activating the Tourism Master Plan.
Professor Syden Mishi, Director of the University’s School of Economics, Development Studies and Tourism emphasised the need for sustainable transformation, stressing tourism’s economic and cultural importance alongside challenges like climate change.
Presentations included community-led tourism by Mike Pantsi and Lusanda Fibi, and inclusive tourism research by University scholars Athi Ndita, Philasande Runeli, Mihlali Mbangeni, and Masibulele Tabata.
EDTA representatives Siphokazi Ngombane and Erenei Louw led discussions on the Tourism Transformation Roadmap and its partnership with Nelson Mandela University.
The day ended with the launch of the Research, Information, Knowledge Management and Governance cluster, aligning local tourism research with national priorities. Dr Bruce Damons, University Engagement Office Director, and Lisakhanya Femele Tourism Society Liaison Officer, coordinated the day.
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Day Two focused on equipping tourism entrepreneurs, SMMEs, and start-ups with tools for compliance, market access, and business growth.
Councillor Bassie Kamana provided strategic oversight, reinforcing the municipality’s commitment to transformation and inclusive growth. Deputy Executive Mayor Councillor Gary Van Niekerk reaffirmed the city’s dedication to economic growth and youth employment through tourism.
Sessions covered Tourist Guiding Compliance by Duma Maqubela (ECPTA), Tourism Transport regulations by Nomsa Mtshwene (National Department of Transport), a Cruise Season update by Andiswa Aba (EDTA), and Digital Marketing by Erenei Louw, who introduced the draft Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism Digital Marketing Strategy. Siphokazi Ngombane and Simphiwe Dube coordinated day two.
The Imbizo closed with remarks from EDTA Standing Committee member Councillor Sicelo Mleve, who praised the collaborative effort and stressed the need for ongoing stakeholder engagement.