Various local guest establishments honoured

MBOMBELA – No less than 11 guest establishments in the Lowveld were announced the best in Mpumalanga in their respective categories at the National Lilizela Tourism Awards which took place at Gold Reef City in Gauteng on Thursday.

The MEC for finance, economic development and tourism, Mr Sikhumbuzo Eric Kholwane, congratulated all of them. “On behalf of the provincial government and the people of Mpumalanga, we wish to join the rest of the country to congratulate and recognise the national winners of the 2014 National Lilizela Awards in different categories. 

“In particular, we want to congr-tulate our provincial stars for putting Mpumalanga on the map. These awards confirm our firm belief that hard work and determination pay handsome dividends.”

Kholwane added the tourism industry was not only the face of the country but remained one of the key contributors to GDP, with a catalytic effect to stimulate local economy and trade investment. These awards were in line with the priorities outlined in the national development plan as an expression of government’s 2030 vision. They seek to recognise contributions with an impact on job creation, service excellence, entrepreneurial skills and sustainable development.

“At the heart of these awards is radical transformation in the tourism industry with opportunities for the previously marginalised,” Kholwane continued. He encouraged entrepreneurs in the province to find more creative and innovative ways in developing and running their businesses. 

“South Africa has a very dynamic economy and therefore requires dynamic thinkers who will be able to step in and help this country to put a strong fight against the triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment. 

“We hope these awards will serve as a tonic of encouragement for you to move from strength to strength, and we wish you every success as you continue growing your businesses to create more jobs in turn,” he concluded. 

Winners from the Lowveld

Bed & Breakfast
• Tarentaal Oorslaap (three star), Mbombela

Guest House
• Loerie’s Call Guest House (five star), Mbombela
• Longtom Farm Guesthouse (four star), Lydenburg
• Country Link (three star), Komatipoort.

Self-catering Exclusive
• Valbonne House at Tomjachu Bush (five star), Crocodile Valley Nature Conservancy. 

Self-catering Shared Vacation
• Badplaas, A Forever Resort: Chalets (three star).

Meetings, Exhibitions and Special Events
• Casambo Exclusive Guest Lodge (five star), Mbombela.

Lodge
• Dulini Private Game Reserve (five star), Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

Lodge
• Tanamera Lodge (four star), Sabie River Valley.

Hotel
• Ecolux Boutique Hotel (five star), Komatipoort.

Hotel
• Forever Hotel @ Badplaas (three star).

Hotel
• StayEasy Emnotweni (two star), Mbombela.