LOCAL tourism is in need of a heritage and cultural museum as a catalyst to tourism development.
That was the message of retired Professor RV Gabela to the uMhlathuze Community Tourism Organisation (uCTO) executive committee members during a visit to his kwaDlangezwa home on Thursday.
Prof Gabela, who has over the years gathered a large collection of traditional Zulu cultural artefacts, says these can be used in talks, demonstrations and exhibitions to engage both tourists and the local populace.
‘However, such tourism firstly needs a base from which to operate. The municipality needs to be involved in providing the required premises and material assistance.
‘Artefacts are related to many facets of Zulu life and culture and need a place where they can be discussed, demonstrated and exhibited,’ said Prof Gabela.
‘The artefacts, which could be attire, tools, utensils, mats or any item from traditional daily use, can be linked to a number of activities, such as medicine and food preparation and even language, story telling and dance.
‘Narration and videos could form part of the presentation.
‘Tourists would want to find out more about the people of this area and the historic and heritage sites, which need to be identified, researched and recorded.
‘I agree that we have not begun to touch the rich value in, for example, sharing the history of the Zulu kings.’
Prof Gabela said young people should also be part of the museum experience.
‘As they learn more about their heritage, one can then take the concept further and branch into career guidance and youth enrichment.’
The uCTO group also visited Dube Village in eSikhaleni and will attempt to get sponsors to upgrade the facility, which is on the ‘township tours’ route.
‘It needs a proper fence and security system so crafters can leave their wares overnight, as well as a general clean-up and paint work in keeping with a tourism-friendly appearance,’ said uCTO Chairperson Vanessa le Roux.
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