MBABANE – A tourism attraction centre set to change the development site of the Hhohho region up-north has revived hope and brought confidence to youth and residents under Timphisini Constituency.
Eswatini Positive News has learnt that government, through the Regional Development Fund (RDF), has allocated E3.4 million for the construction of a restaurant at the Matsamo Tourism Park – a project that has been viewed will boost the tourism traffic to Matsamo.
Since entertainment and ‘chilling spots’ are limited up-north, the Matsamo Tourism Centre, which is already talk of the town, has become a perfect location for visitors. Surrounded by one of the beautiful dam views, the centre has recorded an increase to people spending their weekends there.
Matsamo is approximately 50km from Kruger National Park, situated at the Jeppes Reef Border Post between South Africa and eSwatini on the R570 national road.
Sibelo Sibandze, a resident, said the tourism centre has the potential to also generate income for the constituency and bring job opportunities. He said this was the reason they want the project to start operating.
“The youth is excited. Actually, everybody is excited and we are proud that government has allocated funds for such a huge project,” Sibandze said.
Banele Ndwandwe said it was without doubt that the centre will change development sphere of Matsamo, putting the constituency into the world map.
“The view and its location is perfect for visitors,” said Ndwandwe.
Eswatini Positive News has gathered that the centre was launched in 2018 where Her Majesty Indlovukazi visited the site.
However, due to COVID-19 lockdowns, the project has experienced delays.
Positively, in May 25, 2021 the constituency received a letter from Regional Secretary approving the construction of a restaurant at the centre.
The budget allocated is E3 450 177.
Timphisini Member of Parliament Nelson Mamba said they are grateful to government for the funding the tourism centre. He said the constituency is excited and ready to welcome the development.
“We believe the tourism centre will attract tourists hence boosting the country’s economy. Again, the centre will provide job opportunities to the residents,” he said.
