Moses Kotane Local Municipality (MKLM) successfully hosted its Tourism Summit/Lekgotla under the theme “Digital and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”, bringing together key tourism stakeholders to explore how digital innovation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) can transform the tourism sector and unlock new opportunities for economic growth.
MKLM Head of Department for Local Economic Development, Ms Nono Maribe, emphasised the need for the Municipality and its tourism sector to embrace the digital revolution.
“Artificial Intelligence is becoming part of innovative tourism. Moses Kotane local municipality has to adapt. Let us tap into the digital revolution. This is the time to redesign tourism for a digital age said HOD Maribe.
Municipal Manager, Mr Mokopane Letsoalo, highlighted that,
“Moses Kotane is rich in wildlife, culture, heritage and hospitality, providing opportunities for swift and innovative tourism development. This Lekgotla gives us an opportunity to tap into a digital competitive edge to grow tourism.”
MMC for Local Economic Development, Cllr Caroline Nkeifeng Motshabi, highlighted that,
“We want to leverage opportunities, strengthen market access and collectively advance tourism development. Unlocking the potential of tourism must translate into opportunities for our local communities and tourism enterprises.”
Mayor of Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Cllr Nketu Nkotswe, emphasised that,
“The rise of Artificial Intelligence is changing the tourism landscape. As Moses Kotane Local Municipality, we must adapt to technological advancements in tourism and ensure that our destination is ready for the digital age.” affirmed Mayor Nkotswe.
The two days Summit was attended by Tourism representatives such as SATOVITO, the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), North West Parks and Tourism Board, North West Development Corporation, South African Tourism, SEDA, Moses Kotane Tourism Association (MKTA), Mphebatho Cultural Museum, Sun City, Women in Tourism, members of the media and other tourism stakeholders.
The Summit concluded with highlighting resolutions and an action plan, reaffirming Moses Kotane Local Municipality’s commitment to collaborative tourism development that creates opportunities for communities, supports local tourism enterprises, strengthens strategic partnerships and embraces digital innovation.