Tourism ministers fly directly into Polokwane for Africa forum
Tourism ministers from Uganda and Mauritius flew directly to Polokwane International Airport for the Africa Tourism Leadership Forum.
POLOKWANE – Tourism ministers from Uganda and Mauritius have flown directly into Polokwane International Airport ahead of the Africa Tourism Leadership Forum, in what the Limpopo Tourism Agency has described as a vote of confidence in the province’s airport and its role as a gateway to the continent.
The ministers and other international delegates arrived at Polokwane International Airport this week ahead of the forum, which takes place at Meropa Casino and Entertainment World from September 2-4.
Direct flights signal confidence in Polokwane
The Limpopo Tourism Agency said the decision to fly directly into Polokwane, rather than landing at OR Tambo International Airport and travelling by road to the province, highlights the potential of the airport to support international tourism and business events in Limpopo.
MEC for Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism Dr Tshitereke Matibe and Limpopo Tourism Agency Board chairperson Freddy Greaver welcomed the visiting ministers on the tarmac.
Polokwane International Airport’s capabilities
The agency said Polokwane International Airport has:
- Two runways
- Four aircraft aprons
- Customs and immigration facilities
- Fuelling services
- Air traffic control
- Rescue and firefighting services
It also has space for expansion, with the airport occupying about 945 hectares.
Gateway to Limpopo’s tourism destinations
According to the agency, the airport’s location about 5km north of Polokwane provides access to major tourism destinations across Limpopo, including the Kruger National Park, Waterberg, Mapungubwe and the Vhembe region.
Positioned as a SADC hub
The airport is also being positioned as a potential SADC transport and cargo hub, as well as a diversion airport and venue for business and events.
Limpopo ready to host the continent
The Tourism Agency said the direct arrivals demonstrate that Polokwane International Airport can play a greater role in bringing international visitors directly into Limpopo.
“The decision by Africa’s tourism leadership to fly direct to PTG is a clear message: Limpopo is ready to host the continent, directly,” the agency said.
