SATSA and the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture (NMBM EDTA) Directorate have partnered to launch a development programme aimed at upskilling tour operators in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.
The aim is twofold – to assist SMEs in their post-pandemic recovery and to position the Nelson Mandela Bay area as a leading tourism destination in the Eastern Cape. The 14-week skills development and training programme is SATSA-run, while the NMBM EDTA plays a funding and guidance role.
The directorate has already been stepping up activities to boost tourism in the area. During Tourism Month in September, it focused on Gqeberha’s cultural heritage with the launch of three community-based tourism experiences.
The synergy with the SME programme was clear at SATSA’s proposal stage and, together, the two entities are now furthering these efforts.
“Developing SMEs sits at the heart of SATSA’s Access, Inclusivity and Diversity Board Committee work. Building a foundation for sustainability not only grows and transforms our industry, but also improves our offering to local and international tourists. We are grateful for the valuable partnership with the NMBM EDTA which is making this possible,” said SATSA COO, Hannelie du Toit.
Addressing the challenges
Having kicked off with a registration process and a training workshop at the NMBM EDTA offices, eleven finalists have now been chosen. They will be completing the comprehensive online training and mentorship programme, which has been tailor-made for each SME, based on a business needs analysis.
It incorporates business management and personal and product development, as well as a focus on market access, pricing, compliance and contracting, among others, meaning that tourism SMEs will be empowered with the knowledge and skills they need to grow.
The project culminates in a virtual destination familiarisation event where the finalists will present their products to a large network of South Africa’s top trade partners.
“To unlock the tourism potential of an area and to achieve growth, it’s important to showcase the best accommodation, restaurants and activities it offers,” explained Du Toit. “We are taking the concept of familiarisation trips, which offer buyers a first-hand experience, and replicating it in a virtual version. In our experience, these are also effective, informative and well-attended.”
Du Toit added that post-event, an online brochure would be created incorporating product content from the finalists and the NMBM EDTA. It will be shared with the buyer attendees, together with a recording.
The brochure will gain additional exposure through distribution to SATSA members and on the SATSA website knowledge hub, giving the finalists a wealth of publicity.
An additional advantage is a 2023 SATSA Association membership for each participant, which unlocks many benefits, such as market credibility, networking opportunities and best-practice sharing. The finalists will be awarded their certificates of completion in March next year.
