International marketing logo

On November 6, 2009 (a bit more than ten days ago) the government of South Africa approved the new international marketing logo for South Africa that replaces about 70 logos that were primarily used by the International Marketing Council (IMC) and SA Tourism to market South Africa abroad. Government spokesperson Themba Maseko said, "This decision takes the country's marketing to new heights, as we get ready to welcome the world to our shores as hosts of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals.". It is said in the press release issued by the Government Communication and Information System that the logo was a culmination of a comprehensive process of consultation between provinces, cities and national departments to align around one brand positioning and a single identity on the international stage. The new logo will not replace the Government Coat of Arms but is purely for the purpose of nation marketing initiatives. The new logo is the result of an 18-month South Africa Alignment project, led by South African Tourism and the International Marketing Council, to align Brand South Africa and ensure that national, provincial and local government co-operate to ensure that the “look and feel” of SA is the same overseas.

Taking into account the diversity of different languages and cultures present in South Africa, having this new logo seems to be a good idea. Let's keep our fingers crossed that it will help make 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals even better! And I'll be discussing this great event in my next posting :)

Sources:
BuaNews
Daily Media, Marketing & Advertising News from Africa