As we continue to celebrate Tourism Month, the MEC for economic development and tourism, Makhosazane Masilela,and the executive chairperson of Nyda, Asanda Luwaca. of National Youth Development Agency (Nyda), officially launched the Mpumalanga Tourism Youth Fund at Manyeleti Game Reserve on September 19.
According to Luwaca, the fund is designed to support young entrepreneurs in the tourism sector within the province, providing financial assistance to help them grow and expand their businesses. The fund is part of a three-year memorandum of agreement between the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Nyda, with each organisation contributing 50% of the fund’s annual R6m.
She also said this initiative aims to empower youth-led businesses in the tourism sector, recognising the importance of tourism as a key driver of economic development in the province. The fund will stimulate innovation, create jobs and promote sustainable business growth, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas of the province.
“The Mpumalanga region is synonymous with tourism and such a fund only aims to further bolster the industry to not only grow, but also ensure that there are young people as key players in the industry. Nyda is excited about this project and looks forward to supporting our youth within the tourism industry,” said Luwaca.
Masilela said the youth fund seeks to empower the youth who are in the business of tourism.
“Allow me to extend my profound gratitude to officials from both the department and Nyda for putting the youth of the province at the apex of our priorities. The contribution that this fund will make to youth development and economic growth of Mpumalanga is unparalleled. I am calling on young people of this province to grab this opportunity and grow their businesses so that they can create more jobs for fellow young people,” she said.
The Mpumalanga Youth
Fund applications are currently open and will be closed in October. To apply for the Mpumalanga Youth in Tourism Fund, visit www.nyda.gov.za.
