Emerging tourism operators in Mpumalanga’s rural and township areas are set to benefit from a new province-wide digital push aimed at attracting local and international visitors.

Launching Tourism Month at Loskop Nature Reserve, the MEC for Economic Development and Tourism Jesta Sidell announced a strategic shift towards technology-driven promotion and expanded investment beyond traditional heritage routes.

Aligning with the UN Tourism 2026 theme, “Digital agenda and artificial intelligence to redesign tourism”, the department will offer digital training throughout September. The initiative will help micro, small, and medium enterprises build websites, use social commerce, and tap into global travel markets.

Sidell stressed that digital inclusion is vital for economic transformation and gender equality, noting that equipping women with tech tools will ensure sustainable local growth.

Public-private partnership targets Loskop Dam upgrade

The launch also highlighted major upgrades at Loskop Nature Reserve through a 25-year public-private partnership with WeWild Africa. Improvements to roads, lodging, and security aim to position Loskop Dam as a top Big Five destination.

To boost domestic travel, entry fees will be waived or discounted at provincial reserves – including Loskop, Manyeleti, and Blyde River Canyon – during Sho’t Left Travel Week and Mahala Week this September.

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Provincial events highlight September calendar

Key September events:

• Barberton Makhonjwa Mountain Marathon: September 12
• Mpumalanga Tourism Expo (Riverside Mall): September 25-27
• Provincial Tourism Day (Dullstroom): September 26

Sidell urged residents to explore their home province, emphasising that local communities and small businesses must be the primary beneficiaries of the tourism economy.