Tembisa hosts World Tourism Day celebration in Emoyeni Section

Tourism Day hosted in Tembisa.

October 9, 2019

Obedience Mkhabela 1 minute read

Princess Maria Masilela with Sibusiso Nhlabathi in Gatalena on World Tourism Day.

Kempton Park Tembisa Tourism Association (KTTA) celebrated World Tourism Day at Gatalena, in Tembisa Emoyeni section, on September 27.

The event featured the greetings of the tourism ambassadors, a car show, music, cultural exchanges, a showcase of art and craft, food and cultural fashion. The Ndebele chieftaincy graced the audience with their presence.

Sibusiso Nhlabathi, the organiser, said they hosted the event to educate the community about the importance of and opportunities within the tourism space.

“People here do not know much about tourism. We are trying to change that, more especially in the townships of the Ekurhuleni region,” said Nhlabathi.

Nhlabathi also said that one tourist can feed about five people, from tour guides to accommodation and transportation.

Princess Maria Masilela addresses people at the World Tourism Day celebration in Gatalena on September 27.

“We need to raise a strong awareness about tourism in our neighbourhoods and schools and gather as many business people to educate them about tourism. As we celebrate World Tourism Day, I say let’s not destroy the monuments we have around us by any means because tomorrow they might be our bread and butter.”

Princess Maria Masilela, serving under Chief Ndzundza Macingwane II, a traditional council, said on behalf of the royal committee, most people are amazed by a house of royalty in the township.

“The royal house exists in the township. We attract tourists to our city and we grow tourism here,” said Masilela.

She also added that they work hand in hand with the municipality and councillors to help identify problems within the community and find solutions.

“As we are heading towards the end of the year, we will identify people who need support in obtaining bursaries or tuition fees. Besides that, we will help resolve disputes in the community, including issues of abuse in families.”

Other stakeholders that were invited included cultural dance groups and business ambassadors. After the speeches, the dance groups closed the event with cultural dance and music.