SMEs in Mpumalanga’s tourism sector stand to gain increased international exposure, job creation and targeted government support with the country hosting over 200 G20 events this year.
At a recent G20 Tourism community outreach in Mbombela, the Department of Tourism outlined how local businesses could leverage opportunities linked to the upcoming G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in September.
These include access to funding, entry to global markets and innovation platforms focusing on sustainability and digital transformation.
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Tlhookomelo Mashile, founding director of SURVYMASH, which manages SURVYMASH Travel and Shuttles as well as the Three Rondavels Coffee Shop at the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, is optimistic about what the G20 event means for local tourism businesses.
“I am aware of the upcoming G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting here in Mpumalanga. As the founder of SURVYMASH Travel & Tours, a tourism SMME operating in the province, I see this as a powerful platform for showcasing our unique local experiences to an international audience,” Mashile said.
The company offers curated travel packages along the Panorama Route, highlighting iconic attractions such as God’s Window, the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Graskop Lift Gorge.
The Three Rondavels Coffee Shop, located near the famous Three Rondavels viewpoint, serves as a cultural encounter point and refreshment stop for tourists exploring the region.
Mashile believes the G20 provides a valuable opportunity to promote both guided tours and local culinary offerings as essential components of Mpumalanga’s tourism landscape.
To fully tap into these opportunities, Mashile emphasised the need for access to funding for improving infrastructure, transport and hospitality facilities ahead of increased visitor numbers.
Businesses must also be included in official side events and tourism expos to showcase unique travel experiences and local cuisine, and there must be targeted training in international tourism standards, digital marketing and packaging experiences for foreign markets.
He said procurement opportunities for catering, transport and shuttle services during the G20 events would also help businesses.
Asked about the lasting impact, Mashile said that with the right follow-through, the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting could be a launchpad for sustained international partnerships, improved infrastructure and greater investment in township and rural tourism.
“For SURVYMASH, this is a chance to grow both our Panorama Route experiences and the coffee shop into key attractions for global travellers. If local tourism entrepreneurs are meaningfully included in planning and delivery, this could redefine how SMMEs contribute to and benefit from major international events,” he said.
Xolani Mthethwa, CEO of Jakada Holdings, agreed that there was potential to grow local companies.
“I am quite aware of the G20 and the opportunities it brings for tourism businesses in Mpumalanga and South Africa,” Mthethwa said.
He highlighted the need for clearer communication and transparency around G20 activities.
“The preparation that is required starts with the sharing of information about the G20 meetings and workshops. Currently, details about interventions for Mpumalanga are sketchy, especially regarding benefits beyond hotels and established hospitality services,” Mthethwa said.
He believes the initiative could be impactful if SMEs receive full financial and non-financial support without bureaucratic hurdles, including improved market access.
The upcoming G20 event presents a unique opportunity for Mpumalanga’s tourism SMEs to elevate their businesses and connect with international markets.
However, unlocking this potential will require sustained support, effective collaboration and deliberate efforts to integrate local entrepreneurs into the broader tourism economy.
If these elements come together, the G20 could mark a turning point for Mpumalanga’s tourism sector, transforming it into a more inclusive, competitive and sustainable industry that benefits communities long after the global spotlight fades.
