In a bid to unlock the tourism potential of the Eastern Free State region, the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (Destea) recently convened a pivotal Eastern Free State Tourism Meeting. The primary objective of this gathering was to devise strategic measures aimed at promoting the Eastern Free State as a vibrant and alluring tourism route.
Destea, in a social media announcement following the event, emphasized its commitment to offer tourists and visitors affordable, exciting, and distinctive experiences within the region. The meeting served as a platform for key stakeholders, including industry roleplayers and product owners from various sectors such as eateries, accommodation facilities, attractions, media, somatology, and government, to converge and deliberate on strategies to elevate tourism prospects in the Eastern Free State.
One of the notable outcomes of the meeting was the decision to create a promotional video showcasing the rich tapestry of attractions and activities that the Eastern Free State has to offer. This video aims to encapsulate the essence of the region and highlight its unique selling points, thereby enticing both local and international tourists. In addition to the promotional video, plans are underway to establish a dedicated website and leverage social media platforms to amplify the visibility of the Eastern Free State as a premier tourism destination.
Moreover, the Eastern Free State Tourism Meeting served as a catalyst for introducing product owners to the Maloti Drakensburg Tourism Route Forum (MDTRF). This forum provides an invaluable platform for stakeholders to extend the reach of their products and services beyond the borders of the Free State and into the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. By tapping into the MDTRF, product owners can access a wider market and contribute to the growth and sustainability of tourism across the region.
The initiative spearheaded by Destea underscores the significance of collaboration and synergy among stakeholders in fostering the development of tourism. By harnessing the collective efforts of industry players, government agencies, and community members, the Eastern Free State stands poised to emerge as a premier tourism destination, replete with diverse experiences and unparalleled hospitality.
As efforts to promote tourism in the Free State gain momentum, stakeholders remain optimistic about the region's potential to attract a steady influx of visitors, thereby bolstering economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange. With a concerted focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, the Eastern Free State is poised to carve a niche for itself on the global tourism map, beckoning travelers to explore its scenic landscapes, heritage sites, and vibrant communities.
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