The much-anticipated commercial that features the world-renowned comedian and former US TV show host, Trevor Noah, to be used to promote South Africa as a tourist destination, has finally been released on various social media platforms.
In the advert, called “Best of Us,” Trevor is inviting tourists from all over the world to come explore the country’s diversity and its different attractions.
The announcement of the deal was mired in controversy back in September when it was reported that the comedian stands to be paid R33 million for the advert.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille distanced the government from the bill, saying the project will be financed by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA).
This after widespread condemnation against the department, with some accusing the government of misusing funds while the country is plagued by high rates of unemployment and poverty, while others gave it a thumbs up believing it will be a fruitful investment.
The TBCSA, which is the umbrella organisation representing the unified voice of business in the travel and tourism sector. released a statement confirming the Minister’s claims in a bid to allay people’s fears.
“The Tourism Business Council of South Africa has been in talks with renowned comedian Trevor Noah and other personalities to collaborate with us on campaigns that will create a wider presence for destination South Africa to international markets.
This is in line with the sector’s ambition to grow tourism arrivals in the country to 15.6 million over the next decade.
If and when the parties ultimately agree on a common strategy, the deal will be wholly funded by TBCSA,’’ read the statement.
The council said the “Best of Us” campaign is targeted at travellers from the rest of the African continent and source markets such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and the rest of the United States.
The release of the advert was however met with mixed emotions on the X platform.
‘’It lacks that cultural flavour, but for an international advert, I think it still hits,’’ one user commented.
‘’I thought I would hate it, but I didn’t’’, another wrote, while another questioned its worth ‘’R33m for this ad?
The big question stands, is this the ad to sell Mzansi?
