The Rensia Palace and Spa's official opening took place last Saturday (7 August). This new tourism gem is sure to add to the variety of accommodation and relaxation facilities the district has on offer for discerning tourists.
The Rensia Palace and Spa is situated at Ha-Dumasi, next to the Punda Maria road. (Road D3756 Malamulele Road).
According to the managing director, Ms Rejoice Nkhumeleni Siaga, the facility was established not only to promote tourism in the area, but also to create employment. "This place has the power to contribute to the economy and bring tourists to the area. We will continue to develop the Palace and Spa, so it creates employment," Siaga continued.
Siaga expressed the hope that the new venture would provide economic relief to the people of Vhembe. "This initiative was done with the involvement of the community and traditional leaders. Our aim is to help tourists with the best accommodation. We realised that people on long journeys needed a good night's rest to ensure that they arrived safely at their destinations. That is why we provide the perfect facility to ensure a peaceful environment for optimal rest," she said.
Siaga thanked the many stakeholders who shared her vision. "It has been quite a difficult and long journey, with many stumbling blocks, but we are happy because all our partners were working hard until the final product was produced. We can only make things happen together, and today we are reaping the fruits of our partnership."
A local businessman, Mr Azwidohwi Michael Ramagoma, said that the Palace and Spa was a major boost for the local economy. "The new business is strategically located, and people will no longer have to travel long distances to get good accommodation," he added.
According to Ramagoma, the opening of the Palace and Spa was a dream come true for rural community members. He said that it would help to alleviate the congestion at different outlets. "We are very excited as the new palace will supplement the existing infrastructure we have around here," he said.
He pointed out that the prime location of the palace was a classic example of how location was one of the most important aspects of a successful business. "We hope the Siaga family will not regret the step they have taken, and we encourage others to come on board and bring more development to our area," he said.
Another businessman, Mr Masala Ramaphosa, said Siaga was doing a good job that was worth emulating. "The job you are doing for our people cannot just go unnoticed. If there were many businesspeople doing what you are doing for the community, this country would be a better place to live in," he said. He encouraged businesspeople to plough back into their communities and assist in the development of the rural areas.