BY NOKUPHILA NXUMALO (INTERN)
PIGGS PEAK – The Department of Forestry has taken a leading role in advancing responsible tourism in Eswatini following the successful hosting of the third Responsible Tourism Conference at Piggs Peak Hotel, which brought together tourism operators, industry leaders and key stakeholders.
The conference focused on turning environmental commitments into practical action, with the Department of Forestry at the centre of discussions on how tourism development can align with biodiversity conservation and sustainable land use.
A key highlight was the Department’s call for tourism operators to incorporate indigenous and endangered plant species into their landscapes. Officials explained that indigenous plants are naturally adapted to local conditions, requiring less water and maintenance, while also providing essential habitats for native wildlife.
They further noted that using threatened species in landscaped areas contributes directly to conservation by creating additional protected micro-habitats outside formal reserves, helping to safeguard Eswatini’s rich plant biodiversity.
The Department also shared progress on the proposed declaration of approximately 105 hectares of Piggs Peak Hotel’s natural area as a Flora Reserve under the Flora Protection Act, No. 5 of 2001. Initial stakeholder engagements and site assessments have already been completed, with work underway to finalise a management plan ahead of gazettement.
Once established, the Flora Reserve is expected to become a model for integrating conservation into tourism infrastructure. It will protect important plant species and ecosystems while offering visitors an opportunity to experience Eswatini’s natural heritage in an immersive and educational way.
According to the Department of Forestry, responsible tourism delivers both environmental and economic benefits. Environmentally, it supports habitat conservation, reduces ecosystem degradation and promotes biodiversity restoration. Economically, it creates employment opportunities, supports local enterprises and attracts eco-conscious travellers seeking authentic and sustainable experiences.
The Department emphasised that partnerships between the forestry sector and tourism industry are essential for protecting Eswatini’s natural heritage. Through collaboration, stakeholders can share knowledge, mobilise resources and coordinate actions that ensure conservation and tourism development progress hand in hand.
Indigenous plants were also highlighted as a key element in enhancing visitor experiences. They provide a strong sense of place, tell ecological and cultural stories unique to Eswatini, support birdlife and wildlife sightings, and create immersive natural environments that enrich the overall tourism offering.
On the proposed Flora Reserve, the Department confirmed that consultation processes and site assessments are complete, and the next step involves finalising the management plan with Piggs Peak Hotel management before submission for approval and gazettement.
The Department further encouraged tourism operators to view environmental conservation as an investment rather than a cost, noting that sustainable practices strengthen competitiveness, resilience and long-term profitability while safeguarding natural heritage for future generations.
The Department of Forestry commended Piggs Peak Hotel for successfully hosting the conference for the third time, praising its continued leadership in promoting responsible tourism in Eswatini.
As responsible tourism gains momentum, the Department of Forestry continues to position itself as a key driver of sustainable development, ensuring that conservation, tourism and community development work together to create lasting value for Eswatini.
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