The objective of the workshop was to upskill Small Medium Micro Enterprises (SMME’s) within the tourism sector which will enable them to grow their businesses.
The workshop, attended by private sector, councillors and municipal officials, focussed on Tourism Development, Financial Sustainability, Stakeholder Relations and Marketing of tourism products. The workshop created a platform for SMME’s to share best practices, brain storm ideas and collaborate strategies which will enable them to grow the tourism sector in the broader West Coast region.
During his welcome address the Executive Mayor of the West Coast District Municipality, Alderman Harold Cleophas, highlighted the importance of an effective partnership between the public and private sector. “Tourism is one of the major drivers of our economy in the West Coast. Government and private sectors must join forces to position the West Coast as a destination of choice for tourists and investors” he said.
The Western Cape is currently experiencing one of its worst droughts in history. It is of utmost importance the tourism sector, as major economy driver, take the lead and set the standards which will assist government in avoiding “Day Zero”.
Serge Phillips from Abbotsdale and his business partner Abongile Nkqayi from Malmesbury were amongst the entrepreneurs in attendance. They are the co-founders of Explore Mzanzi Tours and Travel, a Tourism Sales and Marketing Agency, marketing tourism destinations and conducting group tours. “The capacity building workshop was immensely insightful and supplied us with valuable information which will assist us in expanding our business. We also had the opportunity to network with other businesses and interact with government officials” said Serge.
The West Coast District Municipality is playing an active role to assist and advise SMME’s in the Tourism sector. Businesses who require assistance are welcome to contact Shaun Cloete via email here.
