MEC Jesta Sidell

31/08/2026

Today, we officially launched the 2026 Tourism Month at the Loskop Dam Nature Reserve, Steve Tshwete Local Municipality in Nkangala District. The launch was to set the outlook for the programme of tourism activities across Mpumalanga throughout September and beyond. Tourism continues to play a vital role in driving job creation, local economic development and inclusive economic growth, while showcasing the province as a premier tourism destination.

31/08/2026

We have arrived at the Loskop Nature Reserve for the Tourism Month Media launch briefing.

27/08/2026

This afternoon, we are meeting with the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) to receive insights and a comprehensive briefing on the outcomes of the 2025/26 financial year audit of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and its entities. The meeting will provide us with an opportunity to understand the key audit findings, areas requiring improvement, and measures necessary to strengthen accountability, financial management, governance and overall institutional performance.

27/08/2026

Today we introduce the new board members of the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) to the MPTA Senior Management that seats concurrently with the board induction at the Anew Hotel Whiteriver, Mbombela Municipality, Ehlanzeni District. The induction provides an opportunity for the new Board to establish a shared understanding of their respective roles, responsibilities and collective mandate in advancing tourism development, conservation and sustainable economic growth in Mpumalanga.

26/08/2026

MEDIA ADVISORY:

MEC SIDELL TO HOST THE TOURISM MONTH MEDIA LAUNCH TO OUTLINE TOURISM MONTH PLANNED ACTIVITIES.

25/08/2026

This afternoon, we are appearing before the Portfolio Committee on Economic Development and Tourism to deliberate on the 2026/27 first quarter performance report of the department and its public entities (MEGA & MTPA) at the Elias Ginindza Committee Room Provincial Legislature.

25/08/2026

Today we are at the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature to respond to questions for oral reply by Members of the Executive Council (MEC).

20/08/2026

20/08/2026

Today, we had a meeting with the Dvunge Trust at the Dawsons Game Lodge in Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality, Gert Sibande District. The Dvunge Trust is a beneficiary of the land restitution programme and operates the Dawsons Game Lodge, which is earmarked for further development to create economic hub for local communities and land beneficiaries.

The proposed development focuses on agro-farming, tourism, renewable energy, and education and training. These interventions have the potential to unlock the economic value of the land, create sustainable opportunities, empower beneficiaries, and contribute meaningfully to inclusive local economic development for the surrounding communities.

18/08/2026

Today, we are honoured to preside over the 4th Annual Green Innovation Challenge, hosted by the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency (MGCA) in partnership with Seriti Green, at Eastdene Community Hall in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality. The 2026 initiative seeks to empower green entrepreneurs through innovation, mentorship, investor and stakeholder engagements, seed funding, and ongoing business development support.

The challenge focuses on practical and scalable green solutions that can create sustainable jobs, strengthen local value chains, and respond to Mpumalanga’s environmental challenges. This initiative reflects our commitment to advancing a green economy that promotes innovation, inclusive economic growth and sustainable livelihoods.