The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has pledged a tourism turnaround to restore the province’s flagship attractions. It also aims to rebuild confidence after years of mismanagement and neglect.
The agency manages key sites along the Panorama Route, including God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Blyde River Canyon. Many attractions now suffer from broken facilities, poor signage and deteriorating infrastructure. As a result, tourism operators and local communities warn that visitor safety, revenue and livelihoods are at risk.
EARLY STEPS IN TOURISM TOURNAROUND
At its first meeting this month, the interim board set out urgent priorities. These include repairing infrastructure, filling critical posts, strengthening financial management and implementing recommendations from a forensic report that exposed maladministration.
To mark Tourism Month, the MTPA announced a clean-up campaign at Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels on 26 September. The initiative runs in partnership with the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality. It aims to improve visitor experience and promote responsible waste management. Officials say it demonstrates the board’s commitment to immediate, visible action.
PILANE PUSHES BACK: NOT IMPRESSED BY PHOTO OPS
Tourism leader Oupa Pilane, a former member of the disbanded SA Tourism Board, dismissed the campaign as insufficient.
“The proposed photo shoot cleaning campaign is a superficial PR stunt that will not address the actual challenges on the ground,” Pilane said.
He also criticised the board for failing to act on commitments agreed with MEC Jesta Sidell. These include ring-fencing revenue from attractions and establishing a tourism think tank. Pilane argues these measures are essential to restore confidence in the province’s tourism sector.
TOURISM TURNAROUND FRESH FACES, BIG FIXES
The leadership overhaul follows the suspension of CEO Mduduzi Vilakazi in 2024. A forensic probe revealed financial mismanagement and irregular appointments. Lemmy Mdluli, formerly Chief Director of Integrated Economic Development at the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, now serves as Acting CEO.
Meanwhile, interim board chair Fish Mahlalela, a former Deputy Minister of Tourism, has emphasised urgent infrastructure upgrades, improved staff morale and stronger stakeholder engagement.
Although the board is focusing on internal reforms, it remains unclear how local communities and tourism operators will be included in shaping Mpumalanga’s tourism future.
A Drop in the Canyon?
For now, the clean-up campaign may show visible progress. However, the real test is whether these measures mark the start of lasting reform or prove to be merely a drop in the canyon.
