The Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA) is setting its sights on growing inbound numbers for the MICE sector, particularly for small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).

CEO of the LTA, Nomasonto Ndlovu, told Tourism Update that its mandate was clear – promote, foster and develop tourism to and within Limpopo, which was why the province brought a number of SMME product owners to participate in Meetings Africa.

 “It’s our responsibility as the LTA to help them grow,” said Ndlovu. “Part of our support is to provide them market access as well mentor and train them to ensure we have capacity in the province for the MICE sector.”

Ndlovu is hopeful that the Tourism Equity Fund, announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of The Nation Address, will increase the pace of transformation in the industry.

“Although we recognise that more work needs to be done to transform the industry, we are proud of what we have accomplished so far. In Limpopo, we’ve had SMMEs that have grown to compete with larger businesses and have won national awards,” said Ndlovu.

“The industry has many opportunities and we believe that this fund will be a springboard for the tourism industry to be more inclusive and truly transform the industry.”