Maria Gustava, Mozambique’s High Commissioner in South Africa, has called for the inclusion of the Mbuzini memorial, site of the death of Mozambique’s first president, Samora Moisés Machel, in the tourist itinerary for South Africa’s Mpumalanga province. This initiative aims to enhance the historical significance of the site and attract more visitors.
“This location should be incorporated into a tourism package for Mpumalanga. As you know, we have Kruger National Park here, which could be part of this offering,” Gustava stated during a visit to the memorial on Tuesday, as reported by AIM.
Her remarks came during a visit by the families of the martyrs of Mbuzini, coinciding with the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the tragic accident that claimed Machel’s life, with official ceremonies held on 19 October.
Gustava also highlighted the potential to enhance the site with additional activities, such as promoting local crafts, to diversify the visitor experience and create opportunities for local communities.
She emphasised the historical significance of the memorial for both Mozambique and South Africa, noting that it is preserved and managed by South African authorities and deserves wider recognition and promotion.
During the visit, family members of the victims who could not attend the official commemoration on 19 October participated in various activities, including a tour of the memorial museum and tending to the plants at the site.



