TRILAND PARTNERS REASSURE TRAVELLERS

BY TLALANE DLAMINI

The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (South Africa), Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA), and Agência Nacional Para Desenvolvimento e Investimento Turístico (ANDITUR) of Mozambique have jointly reaffirmed their commitment to safe, welcoming and seamless cross-border tourism, assuring local, regional and international travellers that the Triland destinations remain open for business despite recent protests reported in parts of South Africa.

In a joint statement issued on July 20, 2026, the three tourism authorities emphasised that the Triland partnership remains united in safeguarding Southern Africa’s tourism reputation while ensuring visitors continue to enjoy safe, memorable and well-coordinated travel experiences across the three neighbouring destinations.

The partners acknowledged public concern arising from recent demonstrations in parts of South Africa but stressed that tourism attractions, accommodation establishments, nature reserves, border posts and key tourism routes across Mpumalanga, Eswatini and Mozambique remain fully operational. Tourism stakeholders continue to monitor the situation closely while providing updates where necessary to ensure minimal disruption to travellers.

The statement further noted that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right in South Africa, the Triland partners strongly reject intimidation, violence, xenophobia and criminal acts directed at visitors, residents or businesses.

“Our partnership is grounded in hospitality, respect, cultural exchange and regional cooperation, and these values continue to guide our collective response,” the statement reads.

To maintain confidence in regional travel, the three tourism organisations are working closely with national, provincial and local authorities, border management agencies, tourism stakeholders and law enforcement structures to monitor developments and facilitate the smooth movement of visitors across borders.

Travellers and tour operators have also been encouraged to remain in regular contact with their travel service providers, consult official tourism and border information channels, and allow sufficient travel time when planning cross-border journeys. The Triland partners reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining coordinated communication with both the tourism trade and the travelling public.

The statement expresses confidence in the resilience of the region’s tourism sector, highlighting the shared responsibility of protecting the livelihoods, tourism enterprises and communities that depend on travel between the three destinations. According to the partners, continued regional cooperation is essential to sustaining Southern Africa’s reputation as a welcoming destination for both leisure and business travellers.

The Triland partnership also highlighted the diverse experiences awaiting visitors across the region, from Mpumalanga’s spectacular wildlife and scenic landscapes, to Eswatini’s rich cultural heritage, adventure tourism and authentic hospitality, as well as Mozambique’s pristine coastline, marine attractions and vibrant coastal communities. Together, the three destinations continue to offer exceptional value and unforgettable cross-border travel experiences.

Concluding the statement, the tourism partners called on governments, businesses, communities and travellers to promote constructive dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, recognising that visitor confidence and the continued growth of regional tourism depend on stability, cooperation and shared responsibility.

Reaffirming their long-standing collaboration, the three organisations pledged to continue working together under the Triland banner to strengthen regional tourism and promote “One Region, Three Destinations, Endless Experiences.”