Premier Ramathuba launches ‘Tourism Thursdays’ initiative

LIMPOPO – The Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, along with nature enthusiasts, recently embarked on an 8km hike at Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve to officially kick off the #TourismThursdays initiative.

This programme, announced during the launch of Tourism Month in the Waterberg District last month, aims to promote the province’s rich tourism offerings and stimulate job creation.

During the event, Ramathuba encouraged citizens to explore local tourism attractions, emphasising the importance of showcasing Limpopo’s diverse sites.

She was joined by key figures, including the MEC for Ledet, Tshitereke Matibe, Capricorn Mayor Mamedupi Teffo, and representatives from Mopani District and Greater Tzaneen.

“Tourism is a priority for our province, and through campaigns like #TourismThursdays, we aim to create more jobs for the youth of Limpopo,” Ramathuba stated.

Promoting tourism is a collective responsibility, she said, urging all government entities to participate actively.

“The first beneficiaries of our tourism efforts are those within our communities,” she added.

Ramathuba also highlighted the need for MECs to include job creation goals in their performance agreements to combat poverty and bolster the provincial economy.

Matibe stressed the role of local leaders in marketing their areas.

“If every mayor can effectively promote their municipality, #TourismThursdays will thrive. As we approach the upcoming Investment Conference on October 23-24, we must focus on attracting investors to our key tourism sites, including the Lekgalameetse Nature Reserve and Wolkberg,” Matibe remarked.

“This initiative is about reawakening and reimagining Limpopo, ensuring that residents recognise and appreciate our natural treasures.”