Duane Petrus – 23 businesses and individuals from the Free State were awarded last night for their contribution to tourism in the province.
The second Lilizela Tourism awards were held at Windmill Casino in Bloemfontein, in conjunction with the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Destea).
Lilizela’s chairperson, Thembi Kunene, said that although there are thousands of tourism products in the Free State, only 33 entries were received.
The department’s MEC Mosebenzi Zwane, promised that they will receive more than 1 00 entries next year.
He said that destinations like the Vaal River, Gariep Dam and other landmarks should attract more tourists to the Free State.
Zwane also boasted that an increase in international visitors had moved the province from eighth to fifth position in the national rankings.
Eight of last night’s winners will represent the province in the national awards in Johannesburg tomorrow.
