EXECUTIVE Mayor Nondumiso Maphazi recently hosted a meeting of the Economic Advisory Panel to discuss the final draft of the Local Economic Development Strategy, the Tourism Master Plan, Madiba Bay Development Agency, Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism as well as on Monitoring and Evaluation of the work of the panel.

Given the prevailing economic conditions, discussions on the Local Economic Development Strategy focused on mechanisms to deal with the recession, the diversification of the economy of Nelson Mandela Bay, maximizing 2010 benefits as well as tourism development.

The panel agreed that in dealing with the current recessionary period special focus should be given to retrenched workers through re-skilling, entrepreneurial development and SMME support.

Strengthening of the automotive sector by procuring locally was also highlighted as critical in ensuring the viability and sustainability of local suppliers. Diversification of the economy was identified as key, to this end, the Local Economic Development Strategy looks at exploring opportunities in the Maritime Industry, maximizing our location as a Coastal City as well as exploring new opportunities in the Services Industry.

In discussions on the Tourism Master Plan and the presentation by Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism, emphasis was placed on the fact that Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism should concentrate solely on destination marketing while the Economic Development, Recreation and Sport Directorate should focus on tourism development.

On urban renewal initiatives the panel expressed its approval of the work being done by the Madiba Bay Development Agency but lamented the “sometimes slow pace with which projects are undertaken”.

The panel wanted more focus to be placed on the benefits that accrue from such urban renewal initiatives so that the Municipality can determine tangible benefits to residents of Nelson Mandela Bay.

The panel also highlighted the need to attract more people to live closer to the city centres so as to make them vibrant and economically viable.

The panel recommitted itself to the four priority areas which form the core of its work, namely, Infrastructure Development, Skills Development, Job Creation & SMME Development and Institutional Capacity Building.

Mayor Maphazi expressed her satisfaction with the work and contribution of the Economic Advisory Panel in providing advice and support to the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.

“With the current economic downturn, this forum becomes critical in assisting us to reassess our economic strategy in order to make sure that our initiatives remain relevant,” she said.