Star-studded MMA 24 event invades Mbombela
According to the MEC for finance, economic development and tourism, the event contributed vastly to Mbombela's tourism and overall economy.
It was not a show to be missed as the Metro FM Music Awards 2024 (MMA24) hit Mpumalanga with ample glitz, glam and entertainment, with various key events, including its black carpet event on Saturday April 27.
South Africa’s acclaimed entertainers and staunch Mpumalangans filled the Mbombela Stadium to witness the entertainment industry’s artists being recognised with accolades, and some bringing on show-stopping performances.
This year’s awards came with a twist – the MMA24 Music Festival preceded by the awards ceremony to celebrate Freedom Day and South Africa’s 30 years of democracy.
The awards and festival featured some of the country’s hottest entertainment personalities, such as Loot Love and ProVerb as hosts, Somizi Mhlongo, Lamiez Holworthy and Oscar Mbo, and American singer and songwriter, Gaopele.
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The Mpumalanga Provincial Government anticipated a boost in its economy, especially within the tourism and hospitality industries, as a large number of visitors came to the province for this glamourous event.
The MEC for finance, economic development and tourism, Nompumelelo Hlophe, said the MMAs are not just a music or social cohesion event, but a tourism event that attracts thousands of people to our picturesque, serene and breathtaking province.
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“Without a doubt, this event had massive economic spin-offs for the province. Restaurants, filling stations and accommodation facilities benefitted significantly. We were informed that accommodation establishments in and around Mbombela were fully booked. Some visitors who did not get accommodation in town approached private home owners to rent out their homes for the duration of their visit,” Hlophe said.
