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December 05, 2024
KwaStuur Homestay: Transforming Rural Tourism in Nxarhuni
Motivated by a passion for using tourism to drive economic growth in her rural Eastern Cape community, Phumeza Stuurman founded KwaStuur Homestay, an innovative hospitality initiative. Situated in the scenic village of Nxarhuni, near East London, KwaStuur Homestay exemplifies the potential of rural tourism to foster local development and cultural exchange.
Originally, Stuurman envisioned a broader tourism venture, including an adventure park, backpacker accommodations, and a restaurant. She hoped to showcase Nxarhuni's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and heritage, transforming the village into a vibrant tourism destination. However, when funding proved elusive, a new opportunity arose when Stuurman joined a homestay initiative run by women in the neighboring township of Mdantsane. This inspired her to start small and learn the nuances of the tourism industry.
KwaStuur Homestay, with its capacity to accommodate up to 12 guests, was born. Beyond providing lodging, the homestay stimulates the local economy through partnerships with community members. Local tour guides offer village experiences, taxi drivers facilitate excursions, and villagers supply traditional dishes for guests.
Although not yet officially graded, KwaStuur Homestay has completed the Basic Quality Verification (BQV), a developmental programme by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA). This initiative prepares establishments in villages, townships, and small dorpies (VTSD) to meet grading criteria through training, funding, and incubation support. Stuurman is currently participating in the Eastern Cape Homestay Incubation Programme, which aims to help her homestay achieve formal grading as a B&B or guesthouse.
Stuurman believes that TGCSA grading will enhance trust among prospective guests, enabling KwaStuur Homestay to achieve its goal of being a profitable, sustainable business. This growth would, in turn, create more jobs and support other local enterprises, including crafters, cultural performers, and tour guides.
KwaStuur Homestay attracts a variety of visitors, predominantly domestic travelers attending events like weddings and funerals. It also serves as a tranquil retreat for leisure tourists seeking to explore the area's rolling hills, meandering rivers, and nearby game reserve. Guests enjoy an authentic rural South African experience, including traditional meals and, upon request, hands-on participation in meal preparation, such as fetching firewood, picking vegetables, and cooking over an open fire.
Strategically located near major routes like the N6 and N2, KwaStuur Homestay is easily accessible. Stuurman envisions expanding the homestay's impact through voluntourism, combining travel with meaningful volunteer work. This initiative would attract guests eager to contribute to community upliftment while immersing themselves in Nxarhuni's unique culture.
Stuurman's ultimate goal is to position KwaStuur Homestay as a sustainable tourism model that drives economic growth, creates jobs, and celebrates the heritage of rural South Africa.
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