Western Cape secures R393m in conference bids

Source: Love Cape Town via Wikimedia Commons

Conferences secured with a focus on the African continent include the Africa Fintech Summit - which took place end of last year in November; the All Africa Exhibition, Africa Partnership for Growth; Africa Investment Indaba; and the Chiropractic Association of South Africa (Casa) Congress and African Chiropractic Federation AGM.

"The economic boost and job creation facilitated by large events is crucial to the growth of our local business tourism sector. We applaud Wesgro and the strides that have been made to keep Cape Town and the Western Cape on the map as a premium business events destination. Every visitor is a potential investor. We look forward to hosting delegates from around the globe – providing us with the opportunity to showcase the capabilities of our local industries spanning a wide range of sectors," says Mireille Wenger, provincial minister of finance and economic opportunities in the Western Cape.

Conferences secured span aviation, engineering, entrepreneurship, green economy, investment, medical, manufacturing, veterinary science, as well as the tech sector.

Wesgro CEO Wrenelle Stander, adds: "I am proud to announce that large conferences are back. Business events from both the domestic and international markets have tremendous economic impact for the province. Moving beyond the economic boost, the events secured bring immeasurable value to our status as a knowledge hub on the continent – reaffirming our place as the destination where great minds meet."

Spotlighting gains to be made by the tourism value chain, mayoral committee member for economic growth at the City of Cape Town, Alderman James Vos, concludes: “Business events are intrinsically linked to leisure tourism – creating a positive knock-on effect for local hotels, restaurants, and attractions. As such, I'm happy to say that the City of Cape Town through my department will fund the Conventions Bureau. We extend a warm welcome to the delegates expected to visit the Mother City over the course of the next few years, and encourage a return with family and friends to fully experience the rich experiences on offer in our city."