An investment of nearly E1 billion is expected to transform the Matsamo Lake Tourism Park into a world-class tourism destination.
| Eswatini Observer WhatsApp Channel
The project will include the construction of a hotel, artificial beach, outdoor bars, and a cultural park, all aimed at boosting the tourism potential of Matsamo in the Northern Hhohho region.
The announcement was made during a meeting held at Matsamo Lake Tourism Park under Timphisini Inkhundla, where Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo and Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini introduced the potential investors to community members.
Massive Tourism Project Unveiled
The investors, under the company EWall, presented their development proposal to both the ministers and the local community.
According to their presentation, the artificial beach alone will cost about E63 million and feature a range of water activities. The water temperatures will be regulated to allow visitors to enjoy water sports even during winter.
EWall also revealed plans to construct a hotel that will accommodate between 800 and 1,000 guests, creating numerous employment opportunities for local residents.
Royal Vision Takes Shape
Minister Khumalo said that during His Majesty King Mswati III’s visit to Matsamo Lake earlier this year, the King directed government to find investors to develop the area into a major tourism attraction.
“We are pleased to report that we have found potential investors through EWall, a partnership made up of Emaswati, South Africans, and Canadians. Today’s event was to formally introduce them to the community so they can begin their surveys and feasibility studies,” said Khumalo.
He added that the development plan includes accommodation facilities, an artificial beach, outdoor bars, and boat activities, which will position Matsamo Lake as one of the leading tourism hubs in Eswatini.
Community Empowerment
Minister Dlamini also expressed appreciation for the project, saying it would empower local residents through employment and income-generating opportunities, ultimately improving their livelihoods.
EWall Director of Communications Prince Bukhosi said the company is seeking permission from the local chiefdom to conduct a quantity survey, which is expected to take about a week.
“After the survey, we will work with the Construction Industry Council (CIC) to identify a potential company to build the infrastructure. We are ready to invest close to E1 billion, with the artificial beach alone costing around E63 million,” he said.
Chiefs Welcome the Project
Mashobeni North Chief Matsafeni Shongwe welcomed the investors and expressed his full support.
“During the King’s last visit, we were tasked with developing the area by finding investors. We are happy to finally see this happening. Should the current land be too small, the umphakatsi will consider expanding it,” said the chief.
He encouraged the investors to work with commitment and dedication.
“Let the spirit of Nkwe guide you so that when the King visits again, he finds tangible progress on the ground,” he added.
Eswatini Observer Press Reader | View Here
