The news that the Nkangala Economic Development Agency (NEDA) is going to give Witbank Dam a facelift worth R4.5b has left everyone gobsmacked.

The municipality was not aware of the plans to develop the dam into a world-class waterfront destination.

They have written to all the role players to get more insight into the announcement that was made at the prestigious Africa Tourism Indaba 2025 in Durban earlier this month.

The announcement was made by Dr Moeketsi Mosola, Chief Executive Officer of Neda, during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) on May 14.

Mosola said the development of the Witbank Dam and the nature reserve is the brain child of Executive Mayor, Hounable Cllr Thomas Ngwenya.

Ngwenya requested Neda to develop a concept around what can be done. The board of Neda commissioned a concept study for the development and approved it.

As a result, this was approved as part of the Mega Catalytic Projects to be pursued by the Neda.

The concept document has been approved by Neda board for public consultation including stakeholders such as Emalahleni Municipality, the local communities, business, and workers.

Mosola said Neda’s plans include two hotels, a modern shopping and restaurant experience, luxury boat cruises and the reconstruction of the game reserve next to the dam.

“This development is not just about infrastructure; it’s about restoring pride and excitement in our community while attracting investment,” said Mosola.

With the MOU signed and sealed, Neda and the MTPA indicated that collaboration with stakeholders and environmental impact assessments will get off the ground.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with phased openings over the following years.

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