02/09/2026
Tri‑Province Tourism Month Media Launch – Explore Lake Gariep Together.
The Northern Cape, Free State, and Eastern Cape have joined forces for the first‑ever Tri‑Province Tourism Month Media Launch, held on 31 August 2026 at Chargo River Lodge, Colesberg.
The theme for the 2026 Tourism Month is, “Growing South Africa’s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era”.
This pioneering collaboration positions the three provinces as one seamless tourism region, centred around the breathtaking Lake Gariep — South Africa’s largest reservoir and a shared natural wonder. By breaking provincial boundaries, the initiative invites domestic travellers to experience connected journeys of culture, heritage, adventure, stargazing, and wildlife across all three destinations.
With support from the relevant tourism industry stakeholders the campaign promises wide exposure and fresh itineraries that encourage longer stays and greater local spend.
Embracing digital innovation, the collaboration integrates AI, social media storytelling, and immersive visitor experiences to position the Tri‑Provinces as a modern, competitive, and sustainable destination.
The Tri‑Province Tourism Month Media Launch was officially opened by the three MECs: Ms. Nonkqubela Ntomboxolo Pieters (Eastern Cape), Ms. Venus Blennies‑Magage (Northern Cape), and Mr. Ketso Makume (Free State). The MOU was signed by the three CEOs of the provincial tourism authorities: Mr. Shawn Modise (NCEDA, Northern Cape), Mr. Obakeng Seseane (FSGLTA, Free State), and Ms. Nokulunga Mnqeta (ECPTA, Eastern Cape).
The CEOs signed a joint collaboration agreement to market and promote the three provinces collectively, with the provinces working together on most tourism activities to enable effective cross‑selling.
NCEDA CEO Shawn Modise hailed the initiative as “a historic moment for rural tourism growth in South Africa,” urging tour operators and the travel trade to present joint itineraries that inspire inter‑province travel.
Tourism Month, celebrated each September, encourages South Africans to explore their own country affordably and authentically. This flagship collaboration ensures that visitors can “find their joy in the Tri‑Provinces” — creating lasting memories while supporting local communities.