Colesberg: The Northern Cape, Free State, and Eastern Cape have joined forces for the inaugural Tri-Province Tourism Month media launch, held at the Chargo River Lodge in Colesberg. This collaborative initiative marks the first time the three provinces have partnered to promote tourism, aiming to position themselves as a unified tourism region centered around Lake Gariep, South Africa's largest reservoir.

According to South African Government News Agency, the theme for the 2026 Tourism Month is 'Growing South Africa's Tourism Sector in the Digital Era.' The collaboration between the provinces seeks to eliminate provincial boundaries, encouraging domestic travelers to embark on journeys that explore culture, heritage, adventure, stargazing, and wildlife across the interconnected destinations.

The initiative is supported by relevant tourism industry stakeholders and promises to offer extensive exposure and new itineraries. This approach aims to encourage longer stays and increased local spending by integrating digital innovation, AI, and social media storytelling. The collaboration strives to establish the three provinces as a modern and sustainable tourism destination.

The media launch was officially opened by the MECs Nonkqubela Ntomboxolo Pieters (Eastern Cape), Venus Blennies Magage (Northern Cape), and Ketso Makume (Free State). An MoU was signed by the CEOs of the provincial tourism authorities: Shawn Modise (Northern Cape), Obakeng Seseane (Free State), and Nokulunga Mnqeta (Eastern Cape). Modise described the initiative as a 'historic moment for rural tourism growth in South Africa,' urging tour operators to develop joint itineraries that promote interprovince travel.

Celebrated each September, Tourism Month encourages South Africans to explore their country in a cost-effective and authentic manner. This flagship collaboration aims to ensure visitors can 'find their joy' in the three provinces, creating lasting memories while supporting local communities.