A vibrant Tourism Stakeholder Symposium took place at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) recently, in partnership with Destination Mzansi (DMC).

The day began with Programme Director Thabo Khupa, who warmly welcomed attendees and encouraged them to engage meaningfully, make connections, and strengthen professional networks.

Among the keynote speakers was Dr Limpho Lekaota, Head of Department for Tourism and Integrated Communication, who emphasised the importance of collaboration among tourism stakeholders.

She expressed appreciation that academics were included in the dialogue, stating, “In tourism, we need to work together; we cannot succeed if we work alone.”

Dr Lekaota also acknowledged challenges facing the university, including the revival of the tourism centre, and assured participants of ongoing efforts to drive positive change.

Joseph Norman Radebe, Director of Community Engagement, delivered an insightful presentation highlighting the historical significance of the Vaal’s tourism landmarks, such as the Sharpeville Massacre site, the Boipatong Museum, and other heritage destinations linked to the signing of South Africa’s Constitution.

He expressed concern over the poor maintenance of these sites, attributing it to fragmented efforts.

“If we work together, we can bring change to the Vaal,” he said.

Sharing her journey, Mmatshepo Mathumbo, Assistant Manager for Tourism at the municipality, reflected on her Sharpeville roots and 16 years in local government. Since joining the department in 2022, she has been instrumental in rebuilding the Tourism Division after several years without leadership.

She urged participants to take themselves seriously, embrace training opportunities, and play an active role in community development.

Mathumbo proudly mentioned that the municipality had recently welcomed a visually impaired VUT tourism student, Nomsa Radebe, demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity.

The programme also featured a moving poem by Mnikazi We Peni, which stirred deep emotion among attendees.
In his address, Thabang Mahlatsi, CEO of Destination Mzansi, encouraged continued research and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in tourism studies.

“We are researching until we grow grey; we need to keep up with AI and make the Vaal great again,” he said.

Mputle Dikobo, Trade and Partnership Manager at Gauteng Tourism Authority, spoke about the power of storytelling in tourism promotion.

He highlighted the Vaal’s hidden treasures, such as Maccauvlei, and remarked, “Together we can thrive if we tell our stories proudly.”

Adding a cultural and environmental perspective, Thabo Heru Matsafu, a spiritual, agroecology, heritage, and restoration activist representing the House of Maat, called for traditional ceremonies and river clean-up initiatives.

“We cannot wait for the municipality forever; the rivers need to be cleaned,” he urged.