MEC SIDELL TOGETHER WITH THE EXECUTIVE MAYORS OF THE NKANGALA DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY AND EMAKHAZENI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY TO HOST THE 2026 PROVINCIAL TOURISM AWARENESS DAY CELEBRATION TO PROMOTE DOMESTIC TOURISM.
Mbombela — As part of the 2026 Tourism Month activities, the MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Ms. Jesta Sidell together with the Executive Mayor of the Nkangala District Municipality, Cllr. Thomas Ngwenya and the Executive Mayor of eMakhazeni Local Municipality, Cllr. Adelaide Mashele will host the 2026 Provincial Tourism Awareness Day Celebration to create tourism awareness.
The Provincial Tourism Day is aimed at educating local communities about responsible tourism and further encourage the preservation of heritage and culture in our society. The event is hosted annually by rotating among the three district municipalities of the province as a precursor for the World Tourism Day Celebration on 27 September.
The celebration of the Tourism Awareness Day enables the Department, the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) and local government to interact directly with various tourism stakeholders and to educate communities about the importance of tourism in growing the economy and job creation.
Likewise, this occasion also presents a unique opportunity for the hosting municipality to showcase its hidden gems, creating a platform for crafters and service providers, and highlighting opportunities for sustainable tourism development. This exposure not only boost local enterprises but also strengthens the district's position as a contributor to the provincial economy. During the event, crafters and various govemment entities are invited to exhibit and share with communities the services they provide.
The event will be held under the following details:
Date: Saturday, 26 September 2026
Time: 09:00
Venue: Sakhelwe Community Hall, Dullstroom, Emakhazeni Local Municipality
All Media is invited.
Journalists interested in attending the event can confirm with Mr. Thomas Msiza on 079 500 0137 or 013 766 4328.
ENDS…
Issued by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism
Enquiries: Mr. Silence Mhlaba - Head of Communication [DEDT] on 066 475 7963 | Simphiwe Shungube - Head of Communication [MTPA] on 072 033 7559 or Mr. Cabanga Maluleka - MEC's Media Liaison Officer on 079 738 3484.
