MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Mr Firoz Cachalia
The representative from the City of Johannesburg
Regional Tourism Organisation of Southern Africa (RETOSA) representative
Ladies and gentlemen
Members of the media
Welcome to the Festival of Africa.
This event follows the recent celebrations of the day when the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) and the precursor to the African Union (AU) were formed in 1963.
Africa Day celebrations acknowledge the progress that we, as Africans, have made, while reflecting upon the common challenges we face in a global environment.
The Festival of Africa that we are proudly are launching today will showcase the continents' tourism, cultural and business opportunities. In addition it serves to highlight the brand of the Regional Tourism Organisation of Southern Africa that is responsible for strengthening regional cooperation and the promotion of tourism within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The festival endorsed by the African Union and New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) will host very important persons (VIP) from government, business, ordinary citizens, arts and media in a dynamic and constructive environment during one of the most important occasions for the Africa.
This exciting event scheduled to coincide with duration of the world cup will offer visitors the opportunity to sample African music, art and live entertainment while enjoying authentic African cuisine and beverages in a secure and relaxed setting.
Tour operators will present their unique products via individual exhibition stands from all the member states including African countries.
Festival of Africa takes place just 10 days before the kick–off of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup in Johannesburg. This world cup has been pronounced as an African Cup and it is therefore befitting for us to celebrate this mega event with our fellow Africans, at the same time provides us with an opportunity to expose visitors to South Africa and Southern Africa as a destination of choice for both leisure and business, so that they can be brand advocates and proud African ambassadors.
Southern Africa offers exceptional value for money and quality travel combined with a range of activities and attractions and we are ready to welcome the international community into our region.
The region has sufficient rooms at affordable prices to cater for the accommodation needs of the 2010 FIFA World Cup visitors. 74 percent of our accommodation establishments are charging reasonable rates.
Information on South Africa is available from the National Tourism contact centre which is available 24 hours a day. Information on the region can be obtained throughout the duration of the festival.
I would like to urge you all to take advantage of the workshop whose theme is: "Doing Business in Southern Africa", during this festival.
To RETOSA, I would like to thank you for making this event possible for all member countries in Africa in particular our regional members. To our visitors, please enjoy our kind hospitality and do come back.
South Africa as a host country sees this as an opportunity not only for business but an event that will benefit the ordinary citizens of the region.
Ke Nako, please spread the word!
I thank you.
