South African President Jacob Zuma, on Wednesday appointed new members for the Brand South Africa (SA) Board of Trustees to help promote South Africa’s image locally and internationally.
The newly appointed ambassadors include Mninawe Silinga, the CEO of Coega Development Corporation, Ryland Fisher, the former editor of the Cape Times and New Age, Connie Molusi, Chairman of the Sishen Iron Ore Community Development Trust and Thebe Ikalafeng, vice-chairman of the Brand Council of South Africa.
Brand SA was established in 2002 by the International Marketing Council to develop and implement a proactive and coordinated international marketing and communication strategy for South Africa.
“From the period of the struggle against apartheid to the dawn of freedom, our brand remains strong and visible. Regardless of challenges we have faced recently, our brand has remained strong and we have a responsibility to nurture and build it further,” Zuma said in a statement, obtained by PANA here.
He said it was an important resource for the attraction of investments and partnerships that will contribute to the mission of creating jobs and improving the quality of life for all.
Zuma also extended his appreciation to outgoing members of the Board who played a sterling role in building Brand SA, including providing direction to huge marketing campaigns such as the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup.
“We truly appreciate the contributions made by the outgoing Board members, they did a lot of good work for the country which the new and re-appointed members will build on. From the FIFA World Cup to our joining BRICS, they provided guidance to the Brand SA team and enabled us to position South Africa correctly as a winning nation in many respects,” he said.