The North-West Parks and Tourism Board is excited to announce the launch of Tourism Month 2024, a special event revealing the province’s plans and initiatives for this year’s celebration, embarking on a month-long journey to highlight the significance of tourism in the Platinum Province.
Tourism Month, celebrated annually in September, plays a crucial role in showcasing the importance of the tourism sector to the South African economy and its contribution to job creation. This year’s theme for Tourism Month is “Tourism and Peace – 30 Years of Connecting People, Places, and Culture.”
The theme reflects the enduring impact of tourism in fostering connections and understanding across diverse communities over the past three decades.
Attendees at the launch event had the opportunity to engage with industry experts and explore how the province is poised to enhance its tourism offerings to both local and international visitors.
“This month is not just a celebration; it is a powerful reminder of the richness that lies in our diverse landscapes, our vibrant wildlife, biodiversity, and
cultures, and our warm, welcoming people. From the golden savannas of the Pilanesberg to the beautiful Magaliesburg, and the tranquil waters
of the Hartbeespoort Dam, from the historical significance of the Taung Heritage Site to the vibrant rhythm of our local communities, to the hunting area of the province, North West is a province that tells a story like no other,” the MEC for Economic Development, Conservation, Environment and Tourism, Bitsa Lenkopane said.
“Join us as we celebrate the power of tourism to bring people together and promote peace through shared experiences. We look forward to your participation in making Tourism Month 2024 a resounding success.
“As we launch this month of celebration, I urge every one of us to become ambassadors of this beautiful province. Let us share the stories of our unique destinations, promote our local businesses, and invite the world to experience the magic of the North West Province.
Tourism is more than just visiting places; it’s about connecting with people. It’s reflected in the laughter of children playing in the village, the wisdom shared by our elders, the creativity of our artisans, and the warm greetings from our local guides. These are the moments where visitors truly experience the unique essence of the North West as a destination,” MEC Bitsa Lenkopane enthusiastically noted.
South Africa like most other countries is currently navigating a period marked by significant challenges and opportunities. As the global community recovers and rebuilds from the effects of recent global events, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry has shown signs of gradual recovery. From 2021 to 2023, international arrivals increased from 415 million in 2021 to 917 million in 2022, and 1.286 billion in 2023. However, despite this upward trend, the overall growth from 2019 to 2023 still reflects a 12% decline, indicating that the industry has not yet fully returned to its pre-pandemic levels.
This underscores the need for continued collective efforts to rebuild a tourism sector that is inclusive, sustainable, and aligned with our core values of unity and resilience. The path forward requires collaboration and a commitment to creating a future for tourism that benefits all.
MEC Bitsa Lenkopane further encouraged all people in the province to travel, and to collaborate, as partnerships are the cornerstones of our success.
“We must collaborate closely with local communities, businesses, government agencies, and international partners to create a tourism experience that is seamless, enriching, and unforgettable. By cultivating a spirit of cooperation, we can build a more inclusive and resilient tourism economy that benefits everyone, from the bustling streets of Rustenburg to the peaceful, serene villages in our rural areas,” she stated.
To our visitors, both local and international, arriving in September and beyond, we offer a warm welcome. Our province is more than just a destination; it carries a profound sense of connection and belonging. We invite you to explore, discover, and create lasting memories here.
As we embark on this journey together, we do so with hope, joy, and deep appreciation for the land that sustains us and the people who bring it to life. Let this Tourism Month be more than a celebration—let it serve as a call to action to build a brighter, more vibrant future for the North West Province.
MEC Bitsa Lenkopane reiterated the theme of “Tourism and Peace.”
“It is crucial to recognise that tourism is more than just an economic activity—it is a powerful means of fostering understanding, tolerance, and unity among people from diverse backgrounds. Through travel, we cultivate tolerance, discovering common ground in every handshake, shared meal, and warm conversation.
“By welcoming visitors with open arms and hearts, we not only showcase the beauty of our province but also promote peace and harmony. In these challenging times, tourism has the potential to build bridges, celebrate our shared humanity, and contribute to a more peaceful and connected world.
To celebrate North West Tourism Month, all North West Reserves and Parks will offer free entry from September 15th to 22nd during Park Mahala Week. This applies to all parks except Madikwe Nature Reserve, which operates under a different model.
This initiative aims to give North West residents a free opportunity to experience the region’s incredible wildlife. In line with the government’s focus on economic empowerment, Park Mahala Week will also create market access opportunities for local SMMEs. Young entrepreneurs from surrounding communities can set up stalls at the parks to showcase and sell their products.
Feel free to take a Sho’t Left to the North (West) and discover the breath-taking natural attractions of the Hartbeespoort Dam, Magaliesberg Mountain range, the Taung Heritage Site and The Cradle of Humankind and not to forget the biggest of the tourist attractions in North West, Sun City Resort.