Africa-Press – Eswatini. ESWATINI Tourism Authority (ETA) Chief Executive Authority Linda Nxumalo has invited people from the Mpumalanga Province to start visiting Eswatini again now that the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided and travel restrictions eased.
She was speaking at The Capital Hotel in Mbombela on Thursday during the activation and launch of the calendar of events. The event attracted over 40 delegates, surpassing the target.
They included the tour operators, event organisers and stakeholders from the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency. hospitality The CEO assured everyone that they would receive the royal experience and warm hospitality Emaswati were known for.
“As we extend to the Mpumalanga province a warm invitation back to Eswatini, we assure you that you will not only be met with the same friendly spirit synonymous with Emaswati, but you will also be treated to a heightened level of local knowledge and guidance on memorable tourism experiences that you can explore, even from the everyday liswati,” she said.
She noted with sadness that the past two years have presented crippling challenges to tourism, which was one of the hardest-hit sectors in the world following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The United Nations World Tourism Organisation reports that international tourism and its closely linked sectors suffered an estimated loss of $2.4 trillion in just 2020 alone due to direct and indirect impacts of a steep drop in international tourist arrivals,” she said.
She noted that despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic, the sector had been resilient as it explored other options which included promoting domestic tourism initiatives. progress “Through various domestic tourism initiatives and campaigns, we have made great progress in achieving the objectives outlined in the ETA’s Strategic Business Plan.
“The plan’s principal goal is that of increasing domestic tourism visits and spends by 10 per cent by 2025. Emaswati have committed towards exploring their country, immersing themselves in the kingdom’s diverse tourism offerings and rich culture,” she said.
The CEO outlined the upcoming events which include the Buganu Festival that is this weekend at Buhleni Royal Residence, which will be followed by the one to be hosted at Hlane Royal Residence at a date to be announced. Another event is the popular Reed Dance ceremony in August. The Swazi Rally is another event that attracts people from many countries.
“Another signature Eswatini event that will happen this year is the MTN Bushfire festival which will offer another dynamic programme of the very best in African and international music and the arts at House On Fire in the Malkerns Valley at the end of May,” she said.
The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency committed to continue with the relationship that exists with their counterparts in Eswatini.
The CEO, Johannes Nobonga, said they were standing ready to bring even more tourists to Eswatini, stating the launch of the calendar of eventswould help them plan trips properly.
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