By Phesheya Kunene
SITEKI – Lubombo Region leaders and private sector players came together in Siteki on Monday to fast-track plans aimed at boosting tourism and investment in the region.
The second high-level stakeholder engagement, hosted at Espinho Restaurant, was convened by Lubombo Regional Administrator Themba Msibi and Siteki Town Council CEO Sithembile Simelane.
The meeting followed a successful inaugural session in May and drew key voices from government, business and civil society.
“We are laying the foundation for a new narrative, one of prosperity, pride and opportunity,” said Simelane.
“Through consistent engagement and public-private collaboration, we can activate our region’s full potential.”
Among the high-profile attendees were EWADE CEO Samson Sithole, prominent entrepreneur Moses Motsa, regional development advocate Celani Shongwe, Ubombo Sugar Commercial Affairs Director Leonard Ndzimandze and John Creamer of USA Distillers. Their presence reinforced growing interest in the Lubombo development agenda.
Key outcomes included the endorsement of the Lubombo 7-Aside Football League to engage youth and attract visitors, plans to revive the Simunye Fun Fair, and a push to elevate sites like Mlawula Nature Reserve and the museums in Tambankulu and Mpaka into must-see heritage tourism stops.
Fresh ideas also emerged, including a Lubombo Trade Fair, a Family Fun Park offering scenic views, and a Lubombo History and Heritage Day to be hosted in Siteki.
Challenges raised during the discussions included the presence of stray livestock on major roads like the MR7 and MR16, as well as the urgent need to improve cleanliness and infrastructure within towns.
Participants also agreed on the importance of regional branding, coordinated marketing of tourism assets, and more opportunities for young people, such as the proposed Lubombo Youth Empowerment Summit.
To lead follow-up action, a joint Secretariat made up of the Regional Administrator’s Office and Siteki Town Council has been mandated to drive implementation and communication efforts. The Secretariat will also liaise with national development bodies like the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA).
In his closing remarks, Msibi emphasised the importance of teamwork and vision.
“Each voice in this room contributes to a bigger dream, a Lubombo that is not left behind, but that leads with innovation, inclusion and investment,” he said.
A date for the next stakeholder meeting will be announced in due course.
