Tourism expo to give industry a boost

This expo was a joint effort by the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) and the Department of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism.

Xolani Mthethwa, the organiser of the event, said preparations leading up to the expo went very well and the interest was better than expected.

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“Originally, we thought we were only going to have 18 exhibitors, because it is our first expo, but we had to expand to 26 because of the demand.

“We are still getting a lot of enquiries. On Saturday morning already, there were people booking for next year.”

Mthethwa said the plan is to host this event annually around the time of Tourism Month in an effort to encourage local people to support domestic tourism.

“We had a variety of tourism businesses, from spas for health and wellness, to guest houses, activities, adventure experiences and cultural experiences. The MTPA was also promoting some of its reserves.

“It was a combination of all the activities and attractions that we have that, if visitors want to come to Mpumalanga, they can enjoy.”

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One of the exhibitors, Dudu Mnisi, who owns a four-star graded bed and breakfast in Bushbuckridge, said she was overwhelmed by the experience of being part of the expo.

“You know, it is a good experience to have with other people and to understand that the pandemic did not affect you only, it has affected so many people.

“At the end of the day we need to just rise above the negativity of the pandemic and sell our business and make a living out of it.”

The MEC for the Department of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Vusi Mkhatswha, also attended the expo and made his way through the various stall while talking to exhibitors about their products.

One of his main requests on the day, and throughout Tourism Month, has been that people prioritise getting vaccinated to help tourism move forward during this time.

Mnisi said it was quite an experience to have the MEC present.

“We feel encouraged. We feel the support that the department of tourism is offering us and we are grateful for it.”

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From the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Commerce’s side, COO Linda Grimbeek said they were impressed with how many people came out to visit the stalls and also by the quality of stalls.

“It was a good opportunity for local people to see what we have to offer. Our booklet, What Can I Do Today?, received a lot of interest. It is clear that people want to get out there.

“Congratulations to Xolani for organising the event, in my opinion it was a huge success.”