Pictured- Mantshadi Makgata ( Provincial Head Merchant Solutions Standard Bank), Me. Mpho Sikisi (Free State Tourism Board), Me. Tankiso Morule (Deputy Chair Free State Tourism Board) and Pakiso Lebone (Acting HOD). Picture by Katleho Malangabe
By Kaya Mntsantsa
KLAK – Bloemfontein
Free State Department of Economic Development and Tourism has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the Free State as a destination to go to, not just to pass through.The province showcased its diverse tourism offering at the Tourism Month launch, with attractions ranging from the golden sandstone cliffs of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vredefort Dome, to water-based experiences at Gariep and Allemanskraal Dams, wildlife reserves like Willem Pretorius and Soetdoring, and the cultural and adventure heartbeat of towns like Clarens, Parys and QwaQwa.
In his welcoming address, Mr. Pakiso Lebone, the Acting Head of Department noted that the month is special for tourism and that the department is committed to positioning the Free State as a better tourism destination.”It is an honour for the department to celebrate this special month for tourism. The Free State reaffirms its commitment to positioning the Free State as a better tourism destination. We have huge potential for adventure and wildlife, and we must encourage longer stays and grow tourism businesses that will create sustainable livelihoods through employment creation,” he said.
Delivering his keynote address, MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Mr Ketso Makume who was in his usual element, said the launch follows the recent collaboration of three provinces Free State, Eastern Cape and Northern Cape to jointly market the inland region and called for the use of digital platforms to tell the Free State story.
“The message is clear; Free State is a place to go to, not to pass through. Our natural environment is a natural asset, and our landscapes are beautiful. Eco-tourism must create opportunities for local communities to thrive. We must become more deliberate in developing opportunities for Free Staters,” said MEC Makume.
He highlighted the importance of sport tourism, driven by the vibrant soccer supporters in Bloemfontein, and stressed that tourism should be seen as an economic sector and not only leisure.”Government must invest more in local tourism and equip local businesses.
“Local businesses must work together in order to grow, there is no need to compete amongst themselves. People must be brave to invest where there is nothing in order to create something. Visit the Free State and be cool. Let’s explore the Free State and support each other,” he concluded.
Delivering a message of support on behalf of Standard Bank, Ms Mantshadi Makgata, Provincial Head of Merchant Solutions, said the bank is committed to supporting local businesses to participate meaningfully in the tourism economy.
“Let’s support and showcase the treasures in the Free State, the beauty of the province is unmatched. Local businesses must be assisted in order to drive their own growth,” said Makgata.
In her vote of thanks, Ms Mpho Sikisi from the Free State Tourism Authority said everyone in the tourism value chain must play their role in ensuring that tourism thrives. She appreciated and acknowledged the contribution of stakeholders in making the event a huge success.”This month provides you with an opportunity to market and sell your products,” she said.
The Department said Tourism Month will be used to encourage domestic travellers to explore the province and to strengthen support for emerging tourism enterprises.
