Latest news with #DeLille
The Citizen
08-08-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Mpumalanga's tourism sector gets a digital boost
The minister of tourism, Patricia de Lille, hosted a community engagement session on the first G20 Tourism Priority on Thursday, July 31, at the Tshwane University of Technology's (TUT) Mbombela Campus. This focused on people-centred artificial intelligence and innovation to enhance travel and tourism start-ups as well as small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs). The event was held in collaboration with the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism and the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency. According to De Lille, the session aimed to bring stakeholders and academia together to explore how digital transformation and innovation can unlock opportunities for businesses and communities. It was held under the theme 'Empowering travel and tourism start-ups and SMMEs through digital transformation'. 'The country will host more than 130 meetings, including 23 ministerial-level meetings across major cities. Over 200 G20-related events are expected, pumping millions into hotels, restaurants and transport services,' said De Lille. She added that tour guides, guest houses, craft markets, and SMMEs will benefit from the international exposure, with many already showcasing Mpumalanga products at Africa's Travel Indaba. ALSO READ: G20 development leaders gather in Kruger for landmark meeting De Lille explained that the G20 Tourism Hackathon is a platform on which students use artificial intelligence and digital innovation to reimagine travel. 'I look forward to seeing young minds create prototypes for innovative visitor systems, accessible booking platforms and cultural storytelling apps. Students from TUT and the University of Mpumalanga are proving that you are not waiting for the future – you are building it,' said De Lille. ALSO READ: Mpumalanga fresh produce market 'a white elephant' – DA spokesperson She also highlighted Mpumalanga's proactive investment in infrastructure through public-private partnerships, which is already yielding results – from upgrading heritage sites to improving road networks and community lodges. 'The department will continue supporting the tourism sector across all provinces through targeted programmes, including the Green Tourism Incentive programme, which empowers businesses to adopt sustainable practices by providing grants of up to R1m,' De Lille said. She noted that 23 approved projects are currently active in Mpumalanga – five have been completed, while the remaining 18 are at various stages of finalising agreements. ALSO READ: Four Mganduzweni primary schools prioritise learners well-being The five completed projects include Tshamani Guest House in Mkhuhlu, Timamoon Lodge in Hazyview, and La Kruger Lifestyle Lodge in Marloth Park. 'Since the 2023/24 financial year, 21 small tourism enterprises from Ehlanzeni have been supported under the Market Access Support Programme to participate in various trade shows. All 21 of these enterprises are black-owned, and 10 are woman-owned,' said De Lille. When Mpumalanga proudly hosts the G20 Tourism Ministers Meeting in September, over 30 ministers from around the world will come here – not just to discuss policy but to experience the province's landscapes, hospitality and cultural riches.
The Citizen
14-07-2025
- The Citizen
Enter theworld ofdinosaurs
The newly opened Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre at Golden Gate Highlands National Park offers visitors a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. The centre aims to preserve the region's rich fossil heritage while honouring the indigenous Basotho culture long connected to the area's ancient history. Picture: Supplied Many years ago, a giant creature called Kgodumodumo is said to have devoured the entire Basotho nation, along with all the animals that roamed their land. According to Basotho mythology, a young hero named Moshanyana wa Sankatana killed the creature, rescuing both the people and the animals. While this is one of many Basotho folklore passed down through generations, scientific evidence discovered in the '70s shows giant prehistoric creatures – now known as dinosaurs – did indeed once roam the earth. Fossils were unearthed near the site of the newly launched Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre at Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State. The R120 million project – funded by the European Union through the National Treasury – is a joint initiative between the departments of tourism and forestry, fisheries and the environment. The centre aims to preserve the region's rich fossil heritage while honouring the indigenous Basotho culture. It features interactive exhibits tracing the evolution, showcasing South Africa's palaeontological significance and promoting biodiversity awareness. ALSO READ: A slice of bush heaven that delivers more than just wildlife De Lille: A win for land reform and local tourism Minister Patricia de Lille described the project as an example of successful land reform, community beneficiation, and intergovernmental collaboration. 'I'm impressed with the cooperation among all three spheres of government. Even more so, this is based on a land claim,' she said. An agreement ensures local communities will benefit directly through eco-tourism activities, quad biking, and a coffee shop. De Lille said more opportunities for SMMEs will be created, while 15 trained local tour guides will be permanently based at the site. 'We want to bring all schools in this area to visit – it's their heritage,' she said, 'Africa is often only associated with safaris and Table Mountain. This centre shows the Free State has unique experiences to offer.' Until 30 September, entry to the centre will be free for all visitors. NOW READ: Foray into the wild: Pilanesberg caters for family
Time Out
08-07-2025
- Business
- Time Out
SA's R2.4 Billion Tourism Budget: Here's what it means for Cape Town
South Africa's latest tourism budget has landed - and it comes with a R2.434 billion mandate to do things differently, and do them better. Tabled in Parliament on Tuesday by Minister Patricia de Lille, the 2025/26 Tourism Budget Vote promises to rewire tourism for transformation—a far cry from the current state of play in countries like the United States, where Brand USA is facing significant budget cuts under Trump 2.0. But money alone won't fix tourism's most pressing challenges. The real question is this: How do we build a tourism economy that works for everyone? With Cape Town positioned as both a flagship destination and host of South Africa's first Tourism Investment Conference in September, the city will play a pivotal role in shaping the future, from budget delivery to global influence. A budget with a mission: Don't repeat the past The message from the national government is clear: inclusive growth, not business as usual. 'We must stop repeating the same actions and expecting different results,' said De Lille in her address, framing the budget as a reset, not just a spend. Shaped by the new Government of National Unity, the department's action plan is structured around destination marketing, tourist safety and security, visa and ease of access, product development and job creation. Big-ticket allocations include: R1.3 billion for South African Tourism to stimulate demand R662 million for destination development and support programmes - spanning SMME funding, green retrofits, tourism grading, transformation, and skills development Also on the table are improved fund management, performance-linked contracts with consequence management for missed goals, real-time digital dashboards, and stronger oversight—all in a bid to close the loop between planning and delivery. Tourism's comeback - but can it transform? The numbers point towards a rebound in 2024 as local travel remains a bedrock: 9.1 million international visitors 40 million domestic trips R92.8 billion in foreign direct spend R133.1 billion in domestic tourism contributions But as De Lille pointed out, growth on its own isn't enough. Tourism must be a turbo-charger for inclusive growth, jobs, and community upliftment. Cape Town's role: Futures thinking meets government strategy Alongside its upcoming role as host of the Tourism Investment Conference, the city is also home to one of the sector's most forward-looking institutions: Cape Town Tourism (CTT). Its Futures 2039 report explores multiple paths for tourism in the city, including the most recent 'Good Hood' scenario, where neighbourhood pride and local ownership sit at the centre of the visitor experience. 'Good Hood is not a fairy tale,' writes CTT CEO Enver Duminy. 'It's a balancing act." He goes further: 'When we celebrate our neighbourhoods, do we truly protect them — or unintentionally open the door for outsiders to take over?' That tension - between authentic celebration and creeping gentrification - is one he says Cape Town must navigate with care. And while it is a vision that aligns with national goals around inclusive growth - turning strategy into lived reality is another story. The challenge now is less about imagining better futures and more about doing the hard work to achieve them: shifting power, protecting communities, and holding both public and private partners accountable. Budgets, foresight, G20 leadership: Now what? As host of the G20 Presidency, South Africa is also leading the G20 Tourism Working Group, where four key priorities are on the table: Inclusive innovation and AI Fair and accessible investment Improved air connectivity (especially within Africa) Community-led, climate-smart tourism development Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu recently launched a G20 Tourism Community Outreach Programme in the Northern Cape — connecting policy with practice by engaging directly with small businesses, creatives, and community leaders. It's part of a growing shift: taking global goals and rooting them in on-the-ground realities. When you align R2.4 billion in national spending, a global platform, and sharp local foresight, the stakes become clear: this could be a defining moment for tourism in South Africa — and Cape Town is at the centre of it. What that looks like in practice, according to the tabled budget: R95 million allocated for upgrades to government-owned tourism sites 25 new community lodges and tourism routes in development 105 MICE bids supported — including 10 events in townships and small towns A push for digitally enabled, climate-conscious tourism infrastructure Even fast-tracked projects like the Robben Island upgrades tie into the broader G20 moment — not just a tidy-up for VIPs, but an investment in long-term access and visitor experience. If this budget cycle is to succeed, it can't just be about plans and platforms. It has to deliver real outcomes for underrepresented communities, SMMEs, youth, and the future of Cape Town's culture-rich, economically diverse tourism landscape. Minister de Lille says we can't afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. If that's true, then building a resilient, people-first tourism economy means backing partnerships that are transparent, place-based, and locally led — not just internationally branded.
IOL News
27-06-2025
- IOL News
Explore the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre: A gateway to South Africa's prehistoric heritage
Inside the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre at the Golden Gate Park. Image: Supplied In the scenic Golden Gate Highlands National Park, a groundbreaking initiative has brought to life the fascinating story of dinosaurs that once roamed the Free State. The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, recently launched by Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, is a testament to the region's rich paleontological heritage and the Basotho people's connection to their land. The centre has evolved beyond merely being a tourist attraction; it has become a hub of scientific discovery and cultural significance. It features life-sized dinosaur sculptures, interactive exhibits, and educational displays that showcase the region's unique fossil findings. Visitors can explore the history of dinosaurs that lived in the area over 200 million years ago, including the Ledumahadi Mafube, a 12-ton, 12-meter-long South African dinosaur. The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is a celebration of the Basotho people's heritage and their connection to the land. The centre's name, "Kgodumodumo", is derived from the Sesotho word for "Great Giant", referring to a mythical monster said to have roamed the Maluti mountains that border Lesotho. The centre's launch marks a significant milestone in preserving the cultural and scientific heritage of the region. "We are proud to share this heritage with the world and inspire future generations to learn about and appreciate our ancient past," said De Lille during the launch ceremony. Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille and His Majesty Moremoholo Mopeli of the Bakoena Kingdom. Image: Supplied She added that the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre was a result of a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, SANParks, and the European Union. The centre's design and content were informed by scientific research and Basotho mythology, ensuring an oral, authentic, and engaging experience for visitors. "The centre's goal is to draw attention to the region's underappreciated but rich prehistoric history," said Professor Jonah Choiniere, a paleontologist from the University of the Witwatersrand. Added De Lille: "We want to tell this story to South Africans and international tourists while bringing elements of the Basotho culture into this." The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. In its opening, the centre has already employed 15 permanent staff members from the surrounding communities. It also claims to provide opportunities for local SMMEs to offer goods and services to visitors. "The centre will boost economic development, create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for surrounding communities, and further attract investment and development," De Lille said. The state-of-the-art centre is set to become a major tourist attraction in the province, drawing visitors from around the world. The building, if viewed from the top, is shaped like a dinosaur, and its unique blend of science, culture, and natural beauty makes it an exciting destination for anyone interested in learning about the region's fascinating past. "We envision that this tourism facility will ensure repeat visits, keep visitors longer, and more importantly, help them spend more money in our captivating destinations," De Lille said. The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre building viewing for the top. Image: Supplied To promote the centre and encourage visitors, SANParks has announced free entry to the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre until September 30, 2025. 'This initiative will allow schools, tertiary students, and communities adjacent to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park to benefit from the centre's offerings,' SANParks' JP Louw said. As a hub of discovery and education, the centre will inspire future generations to learn about and appreciate the fascinating history of the Free State's dinosaurs, according to Louw.
IOL News
20-06-2025
- IOL News
New dinosaur centre set to boost rural tourism in Free State
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre will provide a state-of-the-art visitor experience, nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. As part of efforts to diversify the country's tourism offerings and promote rural tourism development, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille is set to launch a dinosaur interpretation centre in the Free State. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Tourism, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), South African National Parks (SANParks), and the Free State provincial government. This R120 million investment, funded by the European Union through the South African National Treasury, represents a significant step forward in the country's mission to create inclusive, educational and globally compelling tourism experiences. Ancient bones The new centre will celebrate Africa's ancient history, highlighting one of the world's oldest known dinosaur embryos ever discovered. With interactive exhibitions that blend palaeontology, archaeology, geology and cultural heritage, the centre aims to awaken curiosity and delight in visitors of all ages. The BaSotho people and their ancestors have inhabited and explored this eastern Free State landscape for centuries. Through their deep connection with the land, early BaSotho communities discovered fossil bones and footprints of unknown creatures. They imagined that these bones and footprints belonged to a mythical beast called 'Kgodumodomo' and created stories about them that continue to feature in BaSotho mythology today. Speaking ahead of the launch, Minister de Lille highlighted the long-term benefits the centre will bring to the community. Attracting tourists 'We will be able to attract more visitors to the Free State province, which is one of the less-visited provinces,' she stated. De Lille also emphasised the importance of making the centre accessible to young people, allowing them to learn about South Africa's history and its ancestors. She is in discussions with SANParks to ensure that visiting the centre remains affordable for South Africans. 'I am in discussion with SANParks about the pricing structure, and even if there is some income, it must be affordable. We have a very high cost of living, and we must consider all of these factors when deciding on the entry fee,' said De Lille. Additionally, she revealed that 30 tour guides from the local community, trained by the Department, will be employed full-time at the centre. 'This centre is a symbol of what we mean when we say, 'Come Find Your Joy in South Africa'," said De Lille. 'Whether your joy is sparked by science, nature, culture or connection, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is an experience that brings it all together in a way that is locally rooted and globally inspiring.'
