MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Jesta Sidell.
Mpumalanga is embracing the month of September with a full calendar of events designed to celebrate its unique tourism offerings and promote sustainable growth within the sector.
The official launch of Tourism Month took place on September 1 at the Lowveld National Botanical Garden in Mbombela, presided over by the MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Jesta Sidell.
The celebrations are set to run until World Tourism Day on September 27.
This year’s tourism efforts included the 2025 Provincial Tourism Careers Expo in Mashishing on September 4.
This event attracted more than 350 delegates, focusing on grades 9–11 learners.
During the expo, industry experts shared information with participants while tourism businesses, training academies, and other similar stakeholders showcased career opportunities.
The Teachers Development Programme would take place from September 5 to 7. This is to identify educators’ needs regarding the tourism curriculum.
The latest information and developments in the industry would be highlighted, and practical teaching methods shared.
The annual Mpumalanga Parks Week offers free access to selected nature reserves from September 8 to 12.
This aims to encourage locals to explore various tourism attractions across Mpumalanga. Ten provincial nature reserves were selected for free entry for day visitors and groups of school learners. Accommodation is charged at normal cost.
Visitors must present their South African (SA) IDs. Participating nature reserves are:
• Blyde River Canyon, Ohrigstad Dam, and Loskop Dam Nature Reserves
• Kromdraai Camp
• Mahushe Shongwe, Manyeleti, Mkhombo Nature Reserves
• Nooitgedacht Dam, Songimvelo, and SS Skosana Nature Reserves
Barberton’s Makhonjwa Mountain Marathon serves as a qualifier for the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathons. The MTPA had organized this marathon, in collaboration with Bella’s Athletics, Ehlanzeni District, and Chief Albert Luthuli Municipalities, for the past three years.
The race runs from the Josefsdal border post to Barberton and is the only marathon in the world hosted at a World Heritage Site.
The race’s purpose is to raise awareness about the scientific and tourism significance of the site, market Barberton as a premier tourism destination, and diversify Mpumalanga’s tourism products through sports activities.
A business exhibition of local products and SMMEs would receive national media coverage as the marathon attracts runners from across the SA Development Community.
On September 20, Provincial Tourism Day would take place in Bethal to educate local communities on responsible tourism and encourage preservation of heritage and culture.
This event annually rotates among the province’s three district municipalities, allowing the Tourism Department, MTPA, and local government to interact with stakeholders and educate the community on tourism’s importance while offering crafters an opportunity to showcase their wares.
The tourism sector promotes local business, encourages responsible tourism, and empowers the youth with educational campaigns. It is a significant contributor to Mpumalanga’s economy and national tourism GDP.
In 2024, Mpumalanga boasted the second-highest number of foreign visitors to the country. The provincial goal is to increase international and domestic visitor numbers and become the number one tourist destination in South Africa.
The G20 Ministerial Visit
Mpumalanga will host the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting on September 12 in the Kruger National Park, placing the province on the global stage.
This is a global forum for major economies and a profound vote of confidence in the province’s capacity to host mega international events.
