Following the recent floods that affected various parts of the province, the MEC for economic development and tourism, Jesta Sidell, recently undertook oversight visits to nature reserves managed by the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA). The visits were aimed at assessing the extent of the damage caused by persistent heavy rainfall, and determining immediate interventions required to restore infrastructure and ensure visitor safety.

Sidell, accompanied by interim MTPA board members, executive management, representatives of the Manyeleti Communal Property Association (CPA), the executive mayor of Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, Cllr Matlanatso Lydia Moroane, and the Greater Kruger Protection Foundation, visited the Manyeleti Nature Reserve to conduct an on-site assessment.

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During the inspection, it was established that internal access routes within the reserve are severely waterlogged, making it difficult for tourists to move around safely. Infrastructure damage was also observed as a result of the flooding. Interventions were initiated to address the damage and to ensure that, once fully accessible, tourists will be able to enjoy a safe and memorable experience, including unhindered movement within the reserve to view wildlife.

“We are going to prioritise the issue of access roads and the security of the facility. We will not work alone; we will approach other departments and the private sector to assist us,” said Sidell.

During the engagements, the Greater Kruger Protection Foundation also committed to assisting with the fencing of the reserve, and to working closely with the MTPA and the CPA to promote sustainable conservation efforts.

The visit to Manyeleti follows similar oversight visits by Sidell and her delegation to other MTPA-managed attraction sites, including Songimvelo Nature Reserve and the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, both of which were negatively impacted by the heavy rainfall. While at the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, which had been temporarily closed by the agency due to safety concerns, it was confirmed that infrastructure damage has occurred as a result of the floods.

Sidell committed to expediting the renovation process and requested the agency’s executive management and the interim board to submit a comprehensive and well-quantified assessment report.

The delegation also visited Songimvelo Nature Reserve, including Kromdraai Camp Site, where a thorough assessment was conducted. A commitment was made to address the challenges caused by the persistent rainfall. The inspection revealed that water pumps used to supply animals within the reserve were damaged by the rain. According to the MTPA, solutions are currently being implemented.

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The interim board chairperson, Fish Mahlalela, indicated that the board is in the process of securing private investment to ensure the sustainability of these facilities, while advancing conservation objectives. MTPA spokesperson Simphiwe Shugube said all nature reserves managed by the agency have since reopened, marking positive news for the tourism sector.

“Tourism plays a critical role in job creation and visitors from all walks of life are encouraged to visit Mpumalanga to experience its scenic beauty and rich wildlife offerings.”