By: Buchule Putini
Nelson Mandela Bay is abuzz as leaders, industry players, and communities gather at the North Campus Conference Centre of Nelson Mandela University for the Tourism Imbizo.
NMBM Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, underscored the importance of the gathering, calling it a milestone moment for the city’s tourism sector.
“Tourism is one of the biggest levers we have to grow our economy and create jobs. This Imbizo is about bringing everyone on board so that Nelson Mandela Bay can take its rightful place as a tourism powerhouse,” said Lobishe.
She stressed the need for partnerships between the public and private sectors. “Government alone cannot carry this vision. We need investors, we need communities, and we need industry leaders to all pull in the same direction,” she added.
Industry players echoed the Mayor’s sentiments. Local tour operator and entrepreneur, Thando Mzimba, said the event shows commitment to building an inclusive sector.
“For small businesses like ours, tourism is not just about visitors; it’s about livelihoods. Platforms like this give us hope that our voices are being heard,” he said.
With its unique blend of natural beauty, heritage, and urban vibrancy, the Metro is well placed to strengthen tourism offerings that will benefit ordinary people while boosting the economy.
The Tourism Imbizo is not just about speeches it is about action, partnerships, and a shared responsibility to make Nelson Mandela Bay shine on the global stage.
