IFES boosts Limpopo’s economy

Economic Development, Environment and Tourism MEC, Thabo Mokone has described the International Fellowship Evangelical Students (IFES) World Assembly currently underway at Bela- Bela area in the Waterberg region as a boost to the economy in the province.
Mokone addressed the 1 150 delegates from 160 countries during the welcoming ceremony on Sunday. The assembly commenced on Monday and is expected to conclude tomorrow (Friday).
Mokone was quoted to have said the assembly created a number of temporary job opportunities for locals. “This event has kept our tourism and economic commodities busy, our public transport sector has been a hub of activity, our local accommodation facilities are being optimally utilised and the meals being consumed are local sourced and prepared.”
He also encouraged the delegates to pray for the province so that it continues to thrive. “Without prayer and the sense of grounding that religious beliefs bring, we may not witness economic development, there may never be thriving tourism and our environment can become a breeding ground for all forms of evil.”
He stressed that the province is very excited to be the host destination for the conference. “We remain focused on supporting our people, both spiritually and economically. Limpopo has, over the years, proven its capacity to attract masses as a favoured destination of religious congregations and prayer meetings. South Africa’s largest Christian gathering takes place twice a year in Limpopo when Zion Christian Church congregants gather at Zion City Moria.
It is therefore very important that we strike a meaningful partnership to ensure that many of these conferences continue to come to this magnificent province,” Mokone concluded.
Chief Executive Officer of Limpopo Tourism Agency, Nomasonto Ndlovu was quoted to have said the assembly helped them to increase the profile of the province as a business tourism and conferencing destination. “It was an opportunity for all the delegates to witness the beauty of our province and especially in this rich region, Ndlovu remarked.

Story: Herbert Rachuene
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