By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The MTPA(Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency) has commenced the final leg of the Triland Excursion for media houses and Tour Operators from the three neighbouring countries(Mpumalanga-South Africa, the Kingdom of Eswatini, the Republic of Mozambique), at the breathtaking town of Dullstroom, in the Emakhazeni Local Municipality.
The Triland initiative, a collaborative effort between MTPA, ETA(Eswatini Tourism Authority), and Mozambique’s INATUR, aims to promote tourism integration and showcase the region’s natural beauty, heritage, and cultural diversity. The initiative seeks to position the region as a unique and seamless destination for both domestic and international travellers.
Promoting Regional Tourism
MTPA Acting CEO, Justus Mohlala, emphasised the importance of continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement in promoting tourism in the region.
He encouraged Tour Operators to develop packages that showcase the region’s diverse offerings, including wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Mohlala invited Tour Operators to explore the less popular, yet equally attractive destinations, such as Emakhazeni, which offers a unique weather that accommodates travellers who are looking for a getaway from the heat in the Lowveld.
He said, besides the enchanting low weather temperature, Dullstroom is a hidden gem that offers exciting activities such as horse riding, hiking trails, fly-fishing, to mention but a few. The CEO also highlighted the success of the collaboration, citing the confidence that tourists have in the region.
“ We know the history of this collaboration. We started very small, but where we are today the results are huge. To the Tour Operators, you are the playmakers. Without you, our products are not selling. I encourage you to keep on improving. Let’s interact, trade amongst ourselves as the society of Triland. Let’s exchange programmes and continue to please tourists that want to break away from their ordinary tourism life and experiences beyond the borders of various spaces,” said Mohlala.
Exploring New Opportunities
The Eswatini Tourism Authority CEO(Chief Executive Officer), Vusi Dlamini, suggested exploring opportunities for golfing tourism, citing the potential for slow mobility products that could benefit the region’s tourism industry. He also highlighted the success of the Bushfire Festival in Eswatini, which attracted over 18,000 tourists, with 82.5% coming from South Africa and Mozambique. He said 11,400 tourists hailed from South Africa, while 3,430 were from Mozambique.
“ The important thing for us is that we need to work together to package different products for our tourists. Let’s find a way to be more creative and see how we can improve. I would like to congratulate the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency for organising this event,” said Dlamini.
Building Bridges and Fostering Development
INATUR Deputy Director, Gisela Malamule, from the Republic of Mozambique, emphasised the importance of building bridges between people, and fostering sustainable development across borders of the three countries.
She highlighted the potential of the Triland initiative to benefit communities and improve economies.
Malamule also informed the guests that the day marked the commemoration of Mozambique’s 50th anniversary of independence. She also applauded the MTPA for hosting the event in an exquisitely scenic area, which proves that there is more to explore in Mpumalanga than popular destinations such as the Kruger National Park and Nelspruit.
“ We hope that this initiative continues for many years to come, because the three countries have more to show and share with one another. Together we can work towards stronger and more competitive tourist relations,” said Malamule.
The Triland initiative is a significant step towards promoting regional tourism and cooperation. By working together, the three countries showcase their unique offerings and attract more tourists to the region.
The initiative’s focus on community engagement, sustainable development, and economic growth makes it a valuable model for regional tourism development.
Other distinguished guests who spoke at the event included; MTPA Board Chairperson, Victor Mashego, who represented MEC Makhosazane Masilela for Mpumalanga DEDT (Department of Economic Development and Tourism), the Head of Department at DEDT, Immy Serakalala, as well as representative from the Limpopo Provincial Government.
