The City of Tshwane needs to step out of the shadows and take advantage of its capital city status to boost tourism and attract business investment. This is according to deputy city manager Lindiwe Kwele‚ who said that despite plans within its long-term vision to reposition it as a preferred destination‚ Tshwane remained one of SA’s “best kept secrets”.“That needs to change. As the capital city‚ Tshwane should be top of mind for business and leisure travelers both locally and globally‚” she said.Kwele was speaking at Tourism Indaba 2015‚ held in Durban this week.Tshwane’s Vision 2055 plans to create government and ceremonial boulevards to boost its profile and become a destination for patriotic celebrations.It also intends to revitalise areas along the Apies River into an artistic quarter dedicated to the memory of Nelson Mandela.The capital prides itself on being a technology- and information-rich city that attracts young business-minded entrepreneurs.It is famous for its iconic jacaranda trees and has several tourist attractions such as the Union Buildings‚ Freedom Park‚ Church Square and the Groenkloof Nature Reserve.Minister of tourism Derek Hanekom said at the opening of the Indaba that Africa’s tourism industry was expected to grow at between 3% and 5%‚ above the international average.Last year‚ 56 million people visited the continent.“Tshwane has a lot going for it; it is the diplomatic hub of Africa‚ has a sophisticated transport infrastructure and technological access‚” said Kwele.“It has the potential to become a destination market of choice‚ thereby attracting much needed revenue.”Democratic Alliance members raised concerns in council earlier this year about Tshwane’s coffers are running dry.On Tuesday‚ the city made an about-turn on its plan to equip households with smart electricity meters after spending more that R830-million on the installation of only 12000 meters. – RDM News Wire, The Times..