LIMPOPO – Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba highlighted the cultural and economic significance of the marula tree, describing it as a unifying symbol.

Speaking at the launch of the Limpopo Marula Festival at Masingita Mall in Giyani, she reflected on how the marula tree has brought communities together through generations, noting its cultural relevance.

“In traditional times, people gathered to sing and dance under the moon while enjoying marula beer,” she said. “Today, as we gather here, we honour the legacy of the marula fruit and allow it to inspire us to embrace the future.”

Ramathuba detailed the origins of the marula industry in Limpopo, established by the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism (LedetEDET) in 2002. The initiative capitalised on the province’s rich abundance of marula fruits to create jobs and economic opportunities.

“The marula fruit is not confined to Phalaborwa but is found in areas such as Giyani and the Vhembe district,” she explained. “This industry has grown into a vibrant sector, bringing together cooperatives, entrepreneurs, and community members to transform the gifts of the marula tree into economic opportunities.”

The premier praised the evolution of the Marula Festival into a cultural and economic highlight, drawing domestic, regional, and international tourists while promoting the marula industry.

According to her, the festival not only showcases the cultural importance of marula but also drives investment in marula-based industries.

“Through cooperative brewing alone, over 12 000 litres of marula beer have been produced, in addition to other products derived from the fruit. This festival demonstrates the potential of community-driven economic development,” she said.

Ramathuba encouraged locals to support the festival by purchasing tickets, noting that their contributions directly boost the local economy.

“When you buy tickets to the Marula Festival, you are contributing to job creation in our province,” she remarked.

She also highlighted the role of registered cooperatives in the industry, emphasising their impact on rural employment and economic growth. “These cooperatives have a positive spin-off for investment and create jobs for rural community members who harvest and transport marula fruits,” she added.

Mopani District Mayor Pule Shayi echoed the premier’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of the marula fruit to tourism, a key pillar of the district’s economy.

“Tourism is a vital component of who we are as a district, and we must all support the Marula Festival. Moreover, as a man, you must know that marula fruit is very important to you,” he said.

Phalaborwa Mayor Mariam Malatji also extended an invitation to the public, assuring tourists of their safety and promising an unforgettable celebration.

“We’re ready and excited to host you! Your safety is our priority, so come and join us as we celebrate the Marula Festival,” she said.

The Marula Festival is scheduled to run from Friday, February 21, to Saturday, March 1, in Phalaborwa.