The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) recently launched the Liberation Heritage Route where Ermelo was listed among six towns that were extensively involved in the anti-apartheid liberation struggle that resulted in a peaceful transition to democracy in 1994.
Chairman of the MTPA board, Mr Thulani Nzima, said the development of the route was facilitated by the Provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation in partnership with MTPA with the intention to highlight the key freedom fighters who fought for justice and freedom from oppression, as well as the destinations that featured prominently during the liberation struggle.
The six towns are Bethal, Daggakraal, Ermelo, Saul Mkhizeville, previously known as Driefontein, Secunda and Volksrust. Mr Nzima also said the aim of the Liberation Heritage Route is to attract local and international tourists to the various liberation heritage destinations linked to South Africa’s liberation history.
MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Mr S’khumbuzo Kholwane, said the Liberation Heritage Route was intended to preserve the country’s struggle history for future generations.
“It is important to note that the towns highlighted are not the only ones within the province, but a number of towns have been identified and may be added to the route in the near future,”said Mr Kholwane.
He concluded by saying this route would be established in phases with the first phase concluded in the towns in the Gert Sibande District.
Each town will provide tourism products and services that will encourage tourists to visit and experience the route in its entirety.
