The Pilanesberg region, known for its wildlife and safari offering, recently introduced two new museums.
Located in South Africa’s North West province, one of the museums is said to focus on the history of the Bakgatla ba Kgafela tribe and the role of traditional leadership. The second museum expands on Bakgatla customs including food, cultural practices and daily life. Heritage tours now take visitors from nearby lodges and resorts to the new museums.
“Tourists are looking for more. The feedback has been encouraging,” said Kgosi Nyalala Pilane, Leader of the Bakgatla ba Kgafela. “Many international visitors are surprised at how much there is to learn here. They come for the animals but they leave remembering the stories and the people.”
The heritage initiative is part of a broader plan to build an inclusive tourism economy, which directly involves the community. According to Pilane, the aim is to grow heritage tourism to stand alongside the safari industry as an enhanced experiential layer.
“We are building on what is already a strong attraction. What is on offer is something you cannot get in the bush. A human connection, a cultural understanding. That makes the whole experience richer for everyone.”
Plans, with government, to improve road infrastructure and safety measures are also underway to further support the region’s tourism growth.
“As tourism continues to grow in the Pilanesberg region, the Bakgatla ba Kgafela want to ensure that visitors leave with more than photographs but also with an understanding of where they have been.” said Pilane.
