Tourism mandate: Clearing misguided perceptions

THE mandate of Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism (NMBT) is sometimes misunderstood because public perception is that it operates as an event organiser, funder and tourism product development agency.

This being the case, management thought it necessary to clarify the mandate, roles and responsibilities of the organisation in an attempt to set the record straight whilst avoiding disappointment when perceived expectations are not met.

“Marketing Nelson Mandela Bay and positioning it as an ideal destination to tourists is the key mandate of the organisation,” said board chairperson, Odwa Mtati, who highlighted Imvaba as one of the many tools with which NMBT’s marketing efforts are communicated to members and stake-holders.

The organisation’s activities are guided by NMBT’s marketing strategy which the Board recently reviewed.
“The board then ensures that there are effective marketing strategies in place and that planning and implementation of these strategies are carried out by the organisation while adhering to strict governance principles dictated by public sector legislation,” said Mtati.

NMBT CEO Mandlakazi Skefile pointed out that in line with the mandate, the role of the organisation was to provide benefits to NMBT members, provide excellent customer service, inform clients, members and staff of the services provided, host educational and networking events, attend trade-shows and other industry events, and, forward applicable sales and leads and/or trade-show reports from convention sales and services to members and stakeholders.

“It is important to inform and communicate with members of the public that there are entities in place ably equipped to deliver on the development of tourism businesses and event organising. Unfortunately, NMBT is sometimes perceived as a public purse that is open to funding events and developing tourism businesses. This is not the case,” said marketing manager Titus Chuene.

However, he stressed that events are an effective tool with which NMBT markets and positions the city as a “preferred tourism destination of choice”.

NMBT works closely with the NMB Municipality and provides input and guidance on which events should be supported by the city, and, ensures that events adhere to the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act as promulgated by parliament.

 For more information on NMBT’s mandate, role and responsibilities see the NMBT membership booklet.