Mandela Centenary to Boost Local Tourism

South Africa’s travel and tourism sector will honor the legacy of former president Nelson Mandela’s centenary by focusing on local tourism. “[The year] 2018 is a particularly special year for growth in our industry as our targeted domestic tourism initiatives are being cohesively positioned through the celebration of Madiba’s 100-year centenary,” South African Tourism Chief Executive Officer Sisa Ntshona said, IOL news website reported. “It is a year like no other with our ‘What’s your 100?’ campaign promoting travel to a selection of 100 must-see Madiba sites, historic landmarks and exhibitions.”  A dedicated App, Madiba’s Journey showcases all 100 sites with interactive displays for users traveling across all nine provinces. “Travel companies are promoting positive local travel experiences centered around the centenary celebrations,” says Otto de Vries, CEO of the Association of Southern African Travel Agents. “Without the former statesman’s courageous pursuit for a democratic nation, tourism would not be flourishing and growing the way is today,” comments Sue Garrett, Flight Centre Travel Group General Manager, Product and Marketing. “From a local perspective, more is being done to encourage South Africans to travel within the country than ever before.”