The inaugural summit will provide a forum for debate and discussion vis-a-vis the leverage and growth of mega-events around the world. On the eve of the 2010 World Cup, South Africa has fast become a sporting and mega-event hub on the world stage.
“Last year's Lion's tour, preceded by the IPL and, before that, several large-scale international events, significantly impacted our bottom line,” said Bezuidenhout. “One can only imagine the up- and downstream benefits these events delivered to the South African economy.” He said that, while in many ways a litmus test for South Africa, he expects the country to pass with flying colours when we host the 2010 World Cup in June and July this year. “The stage is set and the international community will be inspired by the African World Cup, and the over-achievement that our country will deliver.”
Bezuidenhout said that South Africa's infrastructure, including new stadia and other facilities event landscape, like Durban's ICC and Sandton and Cape Town's Convention Centre among others, its transport infrastructure and well-developed hospitality industry, has positioned the country well to continue hosting mega events. “The ongoing, positive economic and social impact of hosting such events cannot be discounted,” he said. “Tourism is a vital source of employment, national revenue generation and investment. Events such as the World Cup this year provide platforms for recovery from the recession.
“It is important that South Africa considers its position on the world stage,” he continued, “and align our thinking, act as a collective in the interests of our country.” He said that Mango plans to continue its partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and forge more relationships where the airline will be able to act in the interests of the country, assisting in developing the market. “Low-cost travel has seen global growth of 10 percent last year, despite a worldwide recession, with a greater move to affordable air travel expected. Low-cost airlines will play an increasingly important role in the development and growth of tourism sectors worldwide.”
Bezuidenhout, who will speak at the WTO Summit on Tourism, Sport and Mega Events met Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk late last year to explore avenues of collaboration.
