CONFERENCES

Nation Brand Forum to spur global competitiveness and enhance national brand

By our News Team | 2021

The forum’s central –‘Believe in SA: Reflect, Rebuild, and Reassure’ – happens at an important juncture in the country’s economic recovery.

The Minister in the Presidency and Brand South Africa are to host the 5th annual Nation Brand Forum. It will bring together a wide range of stakeholders to chart the way forward to realise the goals of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP).

Photo by African Union

Its overall objective is to revive and revitalise the South African economy and the national brand post the Covid-19 pandemic.

For 2021, the forum’s theme is ‘Believe in South Africa: Reflect, Rebuild, and Reassure’. It will be held tomorrow (28 September) as a hybrid event with the speakers and limited audience at the Sandton Convention Centre and streamed live globally. This is in compliance with Covid-19 guidelines.

Collaboration at the heart of plans

This year’s forum will highlight the importance of collaborative efforts to boost investment, trade and tourism for South Africa. It features decision-makers such as the host and executive authority of Brand South Africa, Minister Mondli Gungubele, the General Secretary of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Wamkele Mene; Simon Anholt, who has advised leaders of nearly 60 countries, cities and regions on branding matters; Professor Bonang Mohale, the new President of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA); and Dr Ryan Noach, CEO of major health insurer Discovery Health.

The forum is happening at an important juncture in the country’s efforts to rebuild and reposition South Africa through the pandemic.

“We have convened this year’s Nation Brand Forum to collectively and constructively reflect on the challenges facing our country. It aims to reassure investors and all stakeholders that South Africa has appropriate and robust policies to re-build a resilient and inclusive economy. That it remains an attractive destination for investment, trade and tourism,” says Sithembile Ntombela, Brand South Africa’s Acting CEO.

Source: Brand South Africa

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