WhatsUP Wednesday Activation kicks-off in Leolo Mountains

LEOLO

The iconic Leolo Mountain at Leolo Village outside Jane Furse in Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality (MLM), played host to a meaningful conclusion of the ‘WhatsUP Wednesday Activation’ programme which was held on Wednesday 6 November 2024.

This capstone event brought together members of the Mabhedla and Swazi Ngobe Traditional Authorities to solidify their engagement with the upcoming Yellow Arum Lily Festival, a key attraction under ‘Gimme Summer’ campaign.

While Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA) CEO, Mr. Moses Ngobeni, was unable to attend the gathering on Leolo Mountain as he presided over critical festival preparations, Mr Puleng Mmotla, Sekhukhune Development Agency (SDA) representative, stepped in to lead the activation.

During the activation, Mmotla presented informational leaflets and promotional materials detailing the Yellow Arum Lily Festival itinerary to uMtfwanenkhosi Mabhedla Nkosi of the Royal House of Mabhedla and Kgoši Ntabazabantu Nkosi of the Swazi Ngobe Traditional Authority.

The traditional leaders were also given posters, activation schedules, and a formal invitation to the stakeholders’ preparatory meeting slated for November 11 on Leolo.

“Leolo is not only the natural habitat of the yellow arum lily, but also a symbol of unity and heritage for the communities who call this place home. Today’s gathering with the royal houses and community representatives underscores our dedication to blending tourism with local tradition, ensuring that this year’s festival resonates deeply with its roots,” remarked Mmotla.

The meeting was attended by representatives from local schools, ward committee members and community-based organizations, all of whom are integral to the festival’s community-based focus.

Both the Mabhedla and Swazi Ngobe traditional authorities voiced enthusiasm, not only for the event’s anticipated economic impact but also for the cultural visibility it offers to the region.

Kgoši Ntabazabantu Nkosi highlighted the importance of the festival in showcasing Leolo’s natural and cultural significance, stating: “This event celebrates our landscape, our traditions, and the richness of our aora. We welcome the collaboration with Limpopo Tourism and look forward to an experience that both educates and unites our people.”

Set against the breathtaking views of Hoepakrans, Leolo Mountain provided a batting backdrop as Mmotla distributed materials that highlight the festival’s weeklong activations, designed to draw thousands to the area.

Mmotla said these events aim to emphasize community ownership, with local schools promising participation in cultural performances and community organizations arranging exhibitions that showcase the heritage and history of Leolo.

“The Yellow Arum Lily Festival, now positioned as a signature event in Limpopo’s annual tourism calendar, aims to bridge tourism and tradition, with stakeholders across sectors from local municipalities to traditional authorities working in tandem,” he said.

Mmotla indicated that the engagement at Leolo Mountain serves as testament to LTA’s holistic approach, ensuring that the festival remains a celebration of both natural beauty and cultural legacy.

“By extending a warm invitation to the royal houses and local stakeholders, Limpopo tourism has laid a solid foundation for an event that promises to invigorate the local economy while celebrating the heritage and landscapes that define the region,” he said.