Limpopo province has a new tourism development to boast about.
A 30 million boutique hotel in the heart of Polokwane was launched today (6 August) amid much fanfare.
Lesetja Mukwevho realised her dream of opening the Atrium Boutique Hotel which she co-founded with her husband, Joseph. Their hotel aims to serve the mid to high end market, something that was lacking in Polokwane.
Mukwevho owns a majority 60% share in the venture, a celebrated fact as South Africa marks Women’s Month.
Funding for the establishment was secured from multiple institutions. The National Empowerment Fund (NEF) contributed R10 million, the Tourism Transformation Fund provided a R5 million grant and the Tourism Equity Fund loaned a sum of R9.8 million. The balance was paid by the Mukwevho’s.
The launch event highlighted the strides women are making in business in South Africa.
Hotel meeting hospitality needs in Limpopo
The Deputy Minister in the National Department of Tourism, Maggie Sotyu were among the dignitaries in attendance.
In her keynote address Sotyu said the new establishment would play a key role in meeting conferencing and accommodation needs in the province.
“Significantly, the hotel is recognised within the Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) as a catalytic project for advancing tourism growth and infrastructure in Polokwane, reinforcing its strategic alignment with both local and national development priorities.
“The significance of women in the tourism sector is multi-dimensional, impacting economic development, gender equality, community empowerment, and the cultural richness of destinations. When structures are inclusive and equitable, tourism can be a powerful tool for empowering women economically, offering both income and agency,” said Sotyu.
During her address Sotyu informed guests of a R100 million cash injection into the Tourism Transformation Fund. The additional funds will source tourism projects in the pipeline and bolster black empowerment within the sector.
The Atrium Boutique Hotel comprises 26 luxury rooms, a restaurant that seats 100, a 100 capacity conference centre, a 15 seater boardroom and bar. The establishment created 56 job opportunities thus far.
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