South Africa commemorates Tourism Month in September to coincide with World Tourism Day on the 27th of September.
Ms. Lungi Goya, Knysna Municipality’s Manager of local Economic & Development and Tourism, said they have a full programme of activities, inspired by the global UNWTO theme Tourism and Green Investments. “We must recognise the significant role of tourism in fostering inclusive economic growth and development. By generating employment opportunities, stimulating local economies, and promoting social inclusion tourism can bring about a positive change in all our communities. “
“Our programme focuses on initiatives that emphasise the significance of investing in the well-being of our planet, our communities, and our future prosperity. “We are collaborating with various partners including SANParks, SANParks Honorary Rangers, Cape Nature, Knysna Basin Project, and the Knysna Municipality Environmental Department to highlight the importance of eco-tourism among the community. School learners are also included in the programme with insightful activities and presentations that we hope will bring a newfound appreciation for preserving our estuaries, beaches, and endangered species.”
“The participating schools – Percy Mdala High School, Concordia High School and Knysna Montessori School – will each send ten learners from their tourism/life science class or eco team to partake in the event.”
WORLD TOURISM DAY
“Eco Awareness will be the main topic of our World Tourism Day event, taking place on the 27th of September at Knysna Hollow. The program includes an enlightening Knysna Seahorse talk by SANParks, a hands-on Knysna litter clean-up led by Knysna Honorary Rangers, an informative session on “The Sea Starts Here” campaign by Knysna Basin Project. Cape Nature will share its eco-tourism plans and strategies, and Knysna Municipality will facilitate a discussion about the Estuary water quality for recreational activities.
The participating high schools will have the opportunity to give a 5-minute presentation and their interpretation of the eco-tourism concept, with a trophy award for the best concept – with a prestigious trophy for the winning concept.”
Win with “Naturally Knysna moments”
Goya said Visit Knysna is running a social media campaign using the hashtag #NaturallyKnysnaMoments. “Participants are encouraged to share images showcasing eco-tourism activities, responsible travel practices, and travellers enjoying our natural assets responsibly. You can participate by sharing your photo on Facebook or Instagram, tagging Visit Knysna using the hashtag #NaturallyKnysnaMoments. You can share multiple photographs, and make sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to receive the latest updates and news, and help us spread the word by tagging friends, and inviting them to share their “NaturallyKnysna moments as well.”Key Hashtags to Use: #NaturallyKnysnaMoments #VisitKnysna #Nature’splayground #TourismMonth2023 #WorldTourismDay2023
For more information, please visit https://www.visitknysna.co.za/ or contact 044 382 5510.
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