Kwalata Hiking, Camping, and Spring Festival Launched at Faan Meintjies
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 29
- 3 min read
The City of Matlosana has officially introduced a new annual attraction with the launch of the Kwalata Hiking, Camping, and Spring Festival. The event, hosted on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve, was organized by the Local Economic Development (LED) Directorate under the leadership of MMC Wesley Kgang. More than just a recreational outing, the festival was designed to combine outdoor adventure with community building and local economic empowerment.
Strong Institutional Support
The launch was supported by a wide range of stakeholders, highlighting the importance of collaboration in driving tourism and development. Present at the event were MMC for LED, Cllr Wesley Kgang, Director for Corporate Services Mr. Max Moabelo, representatives from the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), the North West Tourism Board, the Matlosana Hiking Club, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, EMRS, and numerous hiking enthusiasts from across the province.
This broad attendance underscored the festival’s dual focus: celebrating natural heritage while also strengthening partnerships that contribute to sustainable local growth.
Objectives of the Festival
The Kwalata Festival was created with three central objectives:
Celebrating Natural HeritageBy hosting the event at Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve, the organizers aimed to encourage greater appreciation of the region’s natural assets. Hiking, camping, and outdoor activities served as platforms to connect residents and visitors with the environment, highlighting the importance of conservation and eco-tourism.
Promoting Healthy LifestylesThe festival emphasised the role of outdoor recreation in physical and mental well-being. Activities such as hiking not only provide exercise but also create opportunities for social interaction and stress relief, reinforcing the idea that healthy communities are central to sustainable development.
Creating Economic OpportunitiesTourism events are a recognised driver of local economies. The Kwalata Festival created space for local businesses, informal traders, and cultural performers to benefit from increased foot traffic and visibility. Such initiatives align with the City of Matlosana’s commitment to job creation and entrepreneurship.
Keynote Insights from Leadership
Delivering the keynote address, MMC Wesley Kgang highlighted the vital role of tourism in stimulating local economies. He described the festival as more than just a gathering for recreation, stressing its economic and social impact.
“Tourism is one of the most powerful tools for local economic development. Events like this festival create opportunities for small businesses, open markets for local products, and showcase the talent and creativity of our people,” said Kgang.
His remarks positioned the festival not as an isolated event but as part of a broader vision for sustainable economic development in Matlosana.
Recognition of Participants
One of the festival’s main attractions was the organised hikes across three distance categories: 3 km, 5 km, and 10 km. Participants of all ages took part, with medals awarded upon completion. The gesture was symbolic, recognising not only individual achievements but also the shared spirit of community involvement.
The hiking activities attracted both seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and newcomers, many of whom expressed appreciation for the chance to explore local landscapes in a structured, family-friendly environment.
Broader Impact on Tourism and Development
The festival’s significance extends beyond a single day. By positioning Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve as a hub for recreation and community events, the City of Matlosana aims to attract visitors from across the province and beyond. This creates opportunities for the hospitality sector, small-scale traders, transport providers, and tourism-linked industries.
The inclusion of institutions such as DEDECT and the North West Tourism Board also signals intent to integrate the Kwalata Festival into the province’s broader tourism calendar. This could elevate the event’s profile, ensuring that it contributes to long-term economic and social benefits for the community.
Final Thoughts
The launch of the Kwalata Hiking, Camping, and Spring Festival represents more than a recreational outing. It is a reflection of the City of Matlosana’s commitment to blending environmental appreciation, healthy lifestyles, and local economic growth into a single platform. With the active involvement of stakeholders and the enthusiastic participation of the community, the festival has laid a strong foundation for future growth.
As medals were handed out to proud participants and small businesses showcased their products, the event illustrated how collaboration, tourism, and community spirit can come together to strengthen local development. Going forward, the Kwalata Festival is expected to become a hallmark of Matlosana’s cultural and economic calendar, contributing to both community pride and regional prosperity.
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