Limpopo’s tourism and hospitality SMEs are preparing for a period of accelerated growth following record investment commitments made at the 5th Limpopo Investment Conference, which secured R170 billion in pledges for economic development across the province.
A significant share of these commitments is earmarked for tourism infrastructure, market access, and business expansion, with small operators already mapping out plans to scale their services.
Fumani Game Lodge is among the businesses that received support, and its management says the investment will fast-track the upgrading of its tourism offerings.
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Marketing manager Akesa Mokhare said the immediate priority is completing the Fumani Village Expansion Project, which includes luxury chalets, a fully equipped sports centre and gym, spa enhancements, and the development of the Valley of the Pools experience area.
“These developments are designed to elevate our guest experience while positioning Fumani Game Lodge as one of Limpopo’s leading premium destinations for leisure, wellness, and corporate retreats,” he said.
Mokhare added that the investment will strengthen the lodge’s operations in the coming months through job creation, improved sustainability measures, smart technology integration, and enhanced digital marketing.
“The Limpopo Investment Conference has proven to be a powerful platform for real change. It’s opening genuine doors for tourism and hospitality SMEs by bridging the gap between private investors and local operators,” he said, noting that the support is a vote of confidence in local excellence.
Mokopane Resorts, which also secured commitments, plans to accelerate the rollout of its tourism and entertainment precinct. According to the CEO of Mokopane Resorts, Terrence Mathebula, the investment will help fast-track additional accommodation, family activity zones, picnic areas, cultural experiences, water-based activities, and major festival events.
“Our immediate focus is on expanding accommodation through additional container homes and glamping units and improving visitor amenities so we can position the resort as a fully inclusive tourism and lifestyle destination,” he told Vutivi Business News.
The development will be rolled out in phases, with the first two years focused on foundational infrastructure, dining facilities, and a portion of the adventure zone.
“By months six to nine, we expect stronger operational capacity, increased guest volumes, and an enhanced visitor experience. This support boosts our sustainability, strengthens competitiveness, and allows more local SMEs and youth entrepreneurs to participate in the tourism value chain,” Mathebula said.
He believes the province’s investment initiatives are already opening real, tangible opportunities for small tourism businesses. “We are seeing improved access to funding and greater visibility for emerging enterprises, supported by stronger collaboration between government, DFIs, and private investors,” he said.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said the R170 billion in commitments reflects renewed confidence in the province’s potential, noting that the funds will be used to stimulate the provincial economy, create jobs, and expand opportunities across multiple sectors, including tourism.
Limpopo Tourism Agency board chairperson Andrew Dipela said tourism remains a central pillar of the province’s economic drive. “The investments we attract today will not only enhance infrastructure and job creation but will also enrich the visitor experience and empower local communities,” he said.
As Limpopo positions itself as an emerging investment frontier, tourism SMEs say the momentum created by the conference could mark a turning point for small operators seeking to scale, innovate, and contribute to the province’s long-term growth.
