MEC launches 14th edition of magical Marula Festival
The Marula Festival contributes in excess of R45 million to the local economy of Ba-Phalaborwa and the Mopani District through general trade.
LIMPOPO – This statement was made by the Economic, Development, Environment and Tourism (Ledet) MEC, Seaparo Sekoati, at the launch of the 14th edition of the festival, held at Palala Boutique Game Lodge and Spa on Friday.
Sekoati told CV the Marula Festival is an annual opportunity to remind the South African population, that the wealth of the people is found within their respective communities and their land.
“Ledet took a conscious decision not only to host an annual festival with no long term economic benefits, but to develop a sustainable industry out of this wild fruit for the primary objectives of addressing the triple challenges of inequality, poverty and unemployment,” said Sekoati.
He said the marula tree falls within species that are protected by environmental laws.
“As such we are partnering with both Ledet and SanParks to ensure the sustenance of this valuable species,” he said.
“We will use the various platforms to raise awareness among our beneficiaries, who are our communities, to discourage deforestation, which has an impact on climate change.”
Sekoati said they have indicated previously and reiterate again, that they will not relent until the living standard of people in the province has improved.
“We are prepared to have other cooperatives registered and their members trained, as cooperatives have shown to be the catalysts of development in a number of societies the world over,” said Sekoati.
“We want to congratulate Leda on their continued support in the fight against poverty through the development and support of the 14 registered cooperatives and for sustaining them over the years until the dawn of our provincial marula hub,” he said.
He said this year’s festival will once again be a deliberate effort by the department to support and invest in small community based businesses.
“We therefore hope that the people of South Africa, SADC region and other international guests will warmly embrace and continue to support efforts made by the provincial government through programmes such as these, which aim to alleviate poverty by embracing culture, diversity and heritage,” he said.
He further said this year once again they have set aside a considerable amount within the marula budget to equip individuals within the arts industry.
The successful groups will be announced and put in the festival open air concert line-up in both youth, jazz festivals and gospel activities, he further said.
The CEO for Limpopo Tourism Agency, Nomasonto Ndlovu, said the festival has played a crucial role in stimulating the province’s economy through the support of local businesses.
“This festival attracts people to our province, to experience what we have and are able to offer,” said Ndlovu.
Tickets for the festival are available for Ticket Pro at R150, general for both youth and jazz and gospel.
