Pic: From Left, MTPA Acting CEO Justus Mohlala and NEDA CEO Dr Moeketsi Mosoma, signing the MOU
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
NEDA(Nkangala Economic Development Agency), under the Nkangala District Municipality, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MOU) with MTPA(Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency), during the Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban, to work together in promoting tourism in the region.
The partnership is said to be aimed at unlocking business opportunities, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth in Nkangala.
NEDA CEO(Chief Executive Officer), Dr Moeketsi Mosoma, said the MTPA is a critical stakeholder and both parties are looking at opportunities that can be mutually beneficial. He emphasised that tourism can play a fundamental role in reducing the 37.6% unemployment rate facing Nkangala.
According to Dr Mosoma,
“ We are not embarrassed to say we are a domestic tourism destination. 80% of the people who come into Nkangala are South Africans and the other 20% is made up of people from international countries. The partnership between MTPA and NEDA makes sense for our region, because when we work together and our marketing initiatives are successful, we’ll be able to attract travellers to our region. For every 8 travellers that visit Nkangala, at least one job will be created,” said Mosoma.
A Member of the Mayoral Committee(MMC) at Nkgangala District Municipality, Ms Mahlangu, said;
“ The region is perfectly positioned as a trade and cultural heartland of Mpumalanga, having Ndebele Culrural Village, eco-tourism and adventure tourism products. We are a proud home of Dr Esther Mahlangu and Gogo Esther Mnguni, our amazing cultural icons that are globally known and respected.
“ NEDA, working with you as our partners is committed to realising the vision of developing Nkangala as one of the fastest-growing regional economy. The networking function gives us an opportunity to provide information about tourism products. We call on you as critical partners to work with us in growing Nkanagala economy,” Said Mahlangu.
Unlocking Economic Potential
The Nkangala region is revered for its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, making it an attractive destination for tourists. The district municipality consists of six local municipalities and has a strong focus on mining, manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, and the green energy economy.
Key Projects
Two major projects have been identified to drive tourism growth in Nkangala:
1. Emalahleni Dam Waterfront: A R4.5 billion project to develop the Witbank Dam into a waterfront, featuring two hotels, a retail shopping experience, and a redeveloped game reserve.
2. Ndebele Cultural Village: A R500 million project to develop a cultural village in the JS Moroka area, featuring an interpretation centre, manufacturing centre for art and craft, dining experience, and training school for young people.
Job Creation and Economic Growth
The partnership between MTPA and NEDA aims to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region. Mosoma said tourism contributes significantly to the GDP.
SMME Support
The partnership also aims to support Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in the tourism industry. Mosoma emphasised the importance of working together to maximise resources and attract tourists to the region.
Mosoma said; “The partnership between Nkangala District Municipality and MTPA is a significant step towards boosting tourism in the region. With our rich cultural heritage and natural resources, Nkangala has the potential to become a major tourist destination, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth”.
