The steady growth of the regional business events (BE) sector, formerly referred to as MICE, has cushioned the tourism downturn currently experienced in the Bay. Several value businesses in manufacturing have already closed their doors and jobs have been lost, but the BE industry has been a bright star in this challenging period for the tourism industry. The MBDA has observed that the industry has been the engine of economic growth with cities like Barcelona, Las Vegas and Singapore and has played a large part in transforming their economies.
Common factors mentioned in case studies are that those attending business events are mostly high value visitors and that they stay for several days. One of the most significant benefits mentioned is that the events occur during the off season and often create fresh opportunities. As a result of this significant opportunity to boost the Nelson Mandela Bay economy, the MBDA has prioritised several projects in this sector that will boost the competitive advantage of the Metro.
The MBDA believes that our destination has many unique experiences to offer to the business events industry, and these include easy access to world-class nature reserves, cultural attractions and breakaway activities to boost the delegate experience. As an example, the opportunity of hosting a luxury business event under the bridge leading to Happy Valley is a compelling option that is unique to the Bay. The views of the ocean, the unique venue and the opportunity to dance on the sand are just some of the offerings to business event organisers that will exceed the normal event offerings experienced by delegates.
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In the 2025/26 financial year, the MBDA is taking another bold step to create a competitive advantage for the industry in Nelson Mandela Bay. The Agency will be developing a 5 626-seat covered amphitheatre to boost the events capacity of the Metro. This spectacular venue will boost tourism in the Metro as its capacity and facilities will allow us to host shows and events that would not currently be possible.
The facility will be situated between the NMB Stadium and the North End Lake site. We are on track to complete detailed designs by the end of December 2025 with the manufacturing of the roof structure completed off site and installation of street furniture completed on site by 30 June 2026. We believe the amphitheatre initiative will attract a new stream of business and leisure events to the Bay to cushion the impact felt through the shrinking manufacturing base.
Collaboration will be critical if Nelson Mandela Bay wishes to take advantage of BE trend and develop a reputation of delivering experiences that will have delegates leaving with a feeling of being immersed in a story that they will never forget. The MBDA is committed to being a partner in the business events space as part of our mandate to drive economic development and job creation in our Metro.
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