PHALABORWA – Ba-Phalaborwa’s economy is set to benefit from a combination of mild winter weather and the recent G20 meeting held in Limpopo, according to the Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA).

Mike Tauatsoala, spokesperson for the LTA, spoke following the launch of the province’s Tourism Winter Campaign at Mopani Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park (KNP). He highlighted that Phalaborwa’s warm winter climate is ideal for tourism.

“The mild temperatures allow visitors to enjoy outdoor activities like game drives in the KNP,” Tauatsoala said. “During the day, people wear summer clothing. For those who dislike cold weather, Phalaborwa is the perfect winter destination.”

The campaign was officially launched by Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (Ledet) MEC Tshitereke Matibe. He echoed the sentiment that the province’s warm weather gives it a competitive edge over other regions during winter.

Adding to the tourism momentum, Hoedspruit recently hosted the Third International Financial Architecture Working Group meeting, part of the G20 summit series, on June 9-10. The event drew about 300 delegates from around the world.

Tauatsoala said hosting these smaller G20 events across Limpopo has positive ripple effects on the local economy.

“Hoedspruit is a favourite among international tourists. We hope the delegates take time to explore nearby attractions, especially the Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five and just minutes away from the venue,” he said.

He added that the full economic impact may be seen later in the year. “By the time the main G20 summit takes place in Gauteng in November, we expect the Mopani region and the rest of Limpopo to see substantial economic benefits.”

Thabiso Sekhula, chairperson of the Mopani Tourism Association, told the Herald that tailored tourism packages have been created for delegates, featuring various attractions in Mopani, including Phalaborwa.

Jonas Mahesu, spokesperson for Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality, also sees economic opportunities arising from the summit. “We anticipate increased business for local filling stations and accommodation providers,” he said.