Africa-Press – Eswatini. Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta has urged Emaswati vendors to take advantage of visiting tourists who want to buy the country’s traditional regalia.
Mkhonta said Incwala and tourism were one and the same thing, just like the other national events, including the reed dance and Buganu ceremony. Mkhonta said while the country took pride to sell its authenticity in the tourism market with its beautiful scenery, tourists were often intrigued by Emaswati’s way of life.
She said it showed that Emaswati loved their culture.
Mkhonta said the arrival of tourists, contributed to the economy as amongst other things they bought fuel for their cars to their respective destinations.
“Tourism contributes to economic growth.
‘‘Other than the fuelling, tourists visit residential places including hotels. These are sectors that employ people, when they book, they create job opportunities. However, when they see us in our traditional regalia, they love it so much that they want to buy it,” Mkhonta said.
She said Emaswati vendors who were doing different works of art and had skills of making various traditional clothing benefitted.
“Those who make tidziya, emajobo and kanga can sell these things. Even those who curve the sticks, tanned the skins or weave ticholo can economically benefit. These are jobs for Emaswati,” she said.
Mkhonta encouraged vendors to attend such national events and sell traditional regalia. She said they should emulate those who sell food in their stalls.
Mkhonta said the uptake into traditional regalia was seemingly taking off even locally, as Emaswati seem to love their clothing.
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