#TourismMonth2026 - The Department of Tourism in collaboration with the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) will officially launch Hotel 247 a black woman-owned 3-star establishment in the Mpumalanga province highlighting the significant role of women entrepreneurs in fostering economic growth.
Formerly known as Forever White River, the establishment was acquired in 2021 by Mrs Khosi Mthalane who transformed the facility into a luxurious hotel that boasts a restaurant, and conference facilities making it a preferred destination for local and international visitors.
The launch of the Hotel 247 facility takes place as South Africa celebrates Tourism Month in the month of September, highlighting the significance of the sector as an economic driver that creates entrepreneurship and employment opportunities. The event will celebrate the role of women in building transformative businesses, and it will highlight the importance of domestic travel in ensuring the sustainability of tourism economies.
The launch will be officiated by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Maggie Sotyu, and the executives from the Mpumalanga provincial government and the NEF. The event will culminate with a community engagement that will share information on the Department of Tourism’s capacity and empowerment programmes for SMME’s.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, 19 September 2026
Time: 09h30 for 10h00
Venue: Hotel 247, 34 Alie Van Bergen St, White River, 1240 – Mpumalanga Province
ABOUT HOTEL 247:
Ownership: 100% black-owned | 100% women-owned
Funding Partners:
Tourism Transformation Fund
R1,650,000 grant
| National Empowerment Fund (NEF)
R1,650,000 - Senior Loan R242,600.00 - Alternative Energy Fund |
Facilities: includes 52 elegant en-suites, 140-seater restaurant & bar, conference facilities that accommodate up to 200 delegates
Jobs created: Currently 29 staff members | The investment created an additional five (5) permanent jobs and generated 15 temporary employments during the renovation phase.