Next Wednesday, April 2, 2025, government officials, business leaders, and conservation advocates will convene at Piggs Peak Hotel for the second Responsible Tourism Conference, a landmark event aimed at fostering sustainable travel practices. Themed “Building Shared Value in Practice,” the gathering will focus on how tourism can generate economic growth, support local communities, and protect natural resources.
Set against the scenic highlands of northern Eswatini, the hybrid conference is open to both virtual and in-person attendees, with free registration still available.
“Responsible tourism is about creating better places to live, which in turn makes them better places to visit,” said Glynn O’Leary, CEO and a key organizer of the event. “This conference is an opportunity to move from discussion to action.”
The agenda includes a keynote speech by Professor Harold Goodwin, a globally recognized leader in responsible tourism. His presentation, “How Creating Shared Value Benefits Hotels and Their Neighbouring Communities,” will highlight successful models from around the world.
Other prominent speakers include:
- Minister of Tourism, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane
- Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg
- Representatives from Big Game Parks, MTN Bushfire Festival, and Ngwenya Glass Recycling
- Tourism boards from Eswatini and the Kruger Lowveld region
The conference aligns with the principles of the 2022 Responsible Tourism Charter, which encourages destinations and businesses to minimize harm while maximizing benefits for local people and ecosystems.
“Piggs Peak stands as proof that tourism, when managed thoughtfully, can drive shared prosperity,” O’Leary added.
The event will conclude with an open discussion led by Professor Goodwin, focusing on actionable commitments for tourism stakeholders across Eswatini and beyond.
Stakeholders across the tourism sector, from policymakers to community members, are encouraged to participate. For more information or to register, contact Elna Petersen at elna@tfpd.co.za or visit https://piggspeakhotel.co.sz/RTD19.
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