US consultant schools Malawi on tourism
An American consultant, Nancy Magsig, says Malawi should aggressively market itself in the Americas because not many people know about the country.
Speaking in an e interview during a coffee morning event organised by Umodzi Consulting for tourism sector players, Magsig said the country has the potential to be among the best tourist destinations because it is peaceful and beautiful.
“I have been to over 30 countries in the world, but I have never seen a country as beautiful as Malawi. This country has plenty of natural resources, including one of the biggest fresh water bodies in Lake Malawi,” said Magsig.
Experts have long argued that Malawi has the potential to attract tourists and increase substantially its contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP).
Recognising tourism’s importance, the Malawi Government has included the sector as one of the five priorities areas that could help spur economic growth through the generation of foreign exchange.
But Magsig said despite being an attractive tourist destination, the country is not well known in America and there is need for aggressive marketing for many people to know what Malawi can offer.
She said she has set up a blog which is followed by a lot of people and Malawi is being featured highly.
“I am highlighting issues such as good road networks, organised deluxe coach services, excellent food as well as friendly and charming people,” said Magsig.
On the training of players in the tourism sector, Magsig said well-trained personnel leave an indelible mark in the minds of tourists which could compel them to come back.
“The hospitality industry is one of the pillars which can help the country generate a lot of forex and if the players in the sector are knowledgeable, it will greatly help,” she said.
Umodzi Consulting consultant Tione Kaonga said there is a huge gap in the service delivery in most hospitality establishments; hence, the training.
“We did an extensive research and what we discovered was that there was a great need to organise a workshop which will tackle the shortfalls that we experience in the hotels, restaurants, lodges as well as rest houses,” he said.
Kaonga said during the research, some customers complained about poor surroundings, quality and quantity of food as well as poor and malfunctioning gadgets such as air conditioners.
“Some customers complained of delays to be served once they have placed orders, others complained of frequent blackouts, insecure parking space as well as rude staff,” he said.
According to the government’s annual economic report, the tourism sector represents a potentially high growth export sector for Malawi, capable of making a substantial contribution to the country’s economic and social development.
