KUGOMPO CITY- The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) in partnership with the Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT), officially launched Tourism Month 2026 on 1st September at Asante Estate outside KuGompo City.
The launch aims to promote tourism in the province and highlight its important role in driving sustainable economic growth and creating inclusive opportunities for local communities.
This year’s Tourism Month was held under the theme ‘Growing South Africa’s Tourism Sector in the Digital Era.’
The theme highlights the growing role of digital technology in promoting destinations, attracting visitors and creating new opportunities within the tourism sector.
However, Tourism Month also provides the province with an opportunity to showcase its diverse attractions, including its beaches, wildlife, cultural heritage and outdoor activities, while encouraging both local and international visitors to explore the Eastern Cape.
Local crafters were invited to the launch to showcase their handmade products and share their experiences as part of efforts to promote local talent and contribute to the growth of the province.
Among those who attended was the founder of Qina Gazi Lam, Aphiwe Tshongweni whose traditional clothing business was established in 2019 and is based in Vincent, KuGompo City.
Tshongweni emphasised that the company specialises in designing and sewing traditional attire, with a focus on celebrating and preserving African culture through fashion.
“We specialise in designing and sewing traditional clothing. Our aim is to create garments that allow people to embrace and celebrate their culture,” Tshongweni said.
She added that customers can view and purchase the company’s fabrics and traditional clothing at its outlets in Vincent and Ruby’s, as well as through its social media platforms under the name Qina Gazi Lam.“We also use social media to showcase our work and make it easier for customers to view and purchase our products,” she said.
In addition, Masilakhe Xhase was also invited to showcase her work. She highlighted that her business specialises in beadwork and sewing, creating unique handmade products that celebrate local culture and traditional craftsmanship.
Furthermore, the province was also expected to use Tourism Month to strengthen collaboration between government, tourism agencies and businesses in promoting tourism as an important contributor to economic development.
During an interview with Eastern Cape Daily News (ECDN) Art Versatile Africa Creative Director Litha Ncokazi, based in KuGompo City said the organisation was pleased to be part of the launch of Eastern Cape Tourism Month 2026 at Asante Estate.
“We are here to mingle and network with industry role players. So far, so good. We are really enjoying the event and the opportunity to connect with others in the tourism and creative sectors,” said Ncokazi.
The launch also brought together tourism stakeholders and partners to celebrate the sector and explore ways of using digital platforms and innovation to grow tourism.
Furthermore, the owner of Rolling Stitches, Khanyisa based in KuGompo, also attended the launch to share her business journey and vision for the company, which specialises in creating home décor products using upcycled cotton materials.
“We make home décor products using upcycled cotton materials, with some of our products featuring genuine 100% leather,” Khanyisa said.
She further stated that Rolling Stitches also showcases its handmade products on social media under the name Rolling Stitches, allowing customers to view and learn more about its creations.
However, Ncokazi added that the event provided Art Versatile Africa with an opportunity to build relationships and engage with other stakeholders in the industry.
The launch highlighted the Eastern Cape’s rich tourism potential and the important role of local businesses and creatives in growing the sector. Through digital innovation, collaboration and networking, the province aims to attract more visitors while creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.
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