The birth of a baby can trigger a wide range of emotions, from excitement and joy to fear and anxiety. But sometimes, new mothers might experience unexpected feelings of depression.
August 22, 2024
New Road Construction Promises Economic Boost for Zoeknog Community
August 22, 2024
Mpumalanga’s townships and villages are poised to become focal points during this year’s tourism month celebrations in September. The fourth annual provincial expo, hosted by Jakada Holdings in collaboration with the Mpumalanga Tourism & Parks Agency (MTPA), is dedicated to enhancing township tourism and stimulating local economies.
Scheduled from October 4-6, the expo aims to promote domestic tourism within South Africa, particularly in the Mpumalanga province. At a recent media launch in Kanyamazane township near Nelspruit, MTPA acting CEO Justu Mohlala highlighted the initiative’s commitment to regional tourism integration, referencing the Triland agreement between Mpumalanga, the Kingdom of Eswatini, and Mozambique.
Mohlala emphasized the strategic focus on township and village tourism, which has been a priority for developing the second tourism economy. “We need a shift in both the perception and offerings of tourism experiences in these areas,” Mohlala stated. He noted that nurturing and properly packaging local offerings are crucial for making them attractive to a broader audience.
In efforts to integrate these areas into mainstream tourism, MTPA is collaborating with tour operators to showcase viable products to international tourists. Addressing concerns about crime potentially deterring tourists, Mohlala clarified that incidents typically occur in transit rather than within the townships themselves. He also mentioned ongoing tourism awareness campaigns aimed at educating local communities to view tourists as economic enhancers rather than targets.
Mohlala expressed aspirations for the expo to evolve into a signature event, reflecting the province’s popularity among tourists. “This entity is mandated to support small businesses and the youth to engage more fully in the tourism industry,” he added. Programs targeting young people, including partnerships with universities for experiential learnerships, are part of MTPA’s strategy to involve more youth in tourism, offering them opportunities based on their areas of study.
This initiative represents a significant step towards diversifying and enriching tourism experiences in Mpumalanga, aiming to benefit both local communities and visitors.