R31m Mthontsi Lodge Opens to Boost Heritage Tourism and Jobs in Eastern Cape
R31m Mthontsi Lodge Opens to Boost Heritage Tourism and Jobs in Eastern Cape. The Department of Tourism has officially opened the R31 million Mthontsi Lodge and Conference Centre in KwaMaqoma, Eastern Cape, in a move aimed at strengthening heritage tourism, creating employment opportunities and supporting local economic development.
The new tourism facility forms part of government’s broader efforts to expand tourism infrastructure while increasing economic participation in rural communities.
The lodge offers a range of accommodation and hospitality facilities, including 13 chalets capable of accommodating 52 guests, backpacker accommodation for 32 guests, a restaurant, conference facilities, two lapas, staff accommodation, an administration building, a guard house and internal roads.
Speaking at the opening, Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu said the investment reflects government’s commitment to ensuring that tourism contributes to local economic development.
“The construction of the Mthontsi Lodge embodies our vision to see the benefits of tourism enjoyed by all in the country. As government, we invested R31 million in constructing the lodge to build an economic future for the community in KwaMaqoma,” she said.
The Department of Tourism said the project created employment opportunities during the construction phase for local small businesses, women and young people. The completed facility now employs five permanent staff members and 10 temporary employees.
The project was delivered through the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) under the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan, an initiative designed to diversify South Africa’s tourism offering, improve visitor experiences and strengthen destination competitiveness.
According to the department, the programme also seeks to promote inclusive economic growth by investing in tourism infrastructure that benefits local communities.
KwaMaqoma’s historical significance is expected to play an important role in attracting visitors. The area occupies land associated with the War of Mlanjeni during the 1800s and is positioned to provide visitors with access to cultural and liberation heritage sites across the Amathole District, as well as nearby destinations including Makhanda, East London and Gqeberha.
Anele Ntsangani said the development acknowledges the area’s history while creating opportunities for future economic activity.
“The establishment of the Mthontsi Lodge represents a long-overdue act of atonement and restoration, as it honours the memory of those who fought and fell here, ensuring their legacy is preserved and shared with future generations,” he said.
The lodge has been handed over to the Amathole District Municipality and the Mthontsi Waselukhuko Primary Co-operative. According to the Department of Tourism, the cooperative represents more than 240 farm dwellers and their descendants who are expected to benefit from the project.
