I. The following main issues were highlighted during the address by the Deputy Chairperson of Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency: II. Mpumalanga Province is one of the main destinations of choice for international arrivals, as confirmed by most recent statistics on international arrivals released by South African Tourism. III. The annual statistics place Mpumalanga at 3rd position after Gauteng and Western Cape, with a 15.8% share of international tourists. The MTPA was committed to multiply its efforts to revive the popularity of the province among domestic tourists and the Agency has supported hosting of vibrant sporting, musical and cultural events in the province. IV. The MTPA successfully marketed the province at the Tourism Indaba, which is regarded as a world class annual trade show where provinces showcase their products. V. In 2011, the MTPA launched the TRILAND Regional Tourism Brand together with Mozambique and Swaziland. Among others, the brand seeks to: promote, develop and position Mpumalanga together with Mozambique and Swaziland as a world-class regional tourism destination; contribute to the integration of the region; contribute to employment creation; develop sustainable tourism; participate in the conservation and protection of biodiversity; and preserve cultural values, heritage and national prides. VI. The MTPA endeavours to promote inclusive economic growth and facilitated the creation of 543 jobs through the Social Responsibility Programme projects for the period 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012. VII. Jobs created were within the programme of Social Responsibility Projects at Songimvelo with (238 jobs), Blyde River Canyon (53 jobs) and Zithabiseni Resort with (252 jobs). VIII. A further 273 jobs were created through the Extended Public Works Programme. The Agency also facilitated training and placement of 75 tourism ambassadors at hotels, lodges, guest houses and tour operators. Also non-financial support service was provided to 45 SMMEs.