Premier Hotels & Resorts has expanded its network of hotels in the country with the launch of Premier Hotel Thohoyandou in Thulamela Municipal area of Limpopo’s Vhembe District.
The four-star hotel boasting 120 rooms represents the largest formal hotel accommodation in the province and is a partnership between the hotel group and owner and entrepreneur, Tsakani Masia.
Premier Hotel Thohoyandou was built at a cost of R194 million with R141m financed by the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the remainder financed by the owner.
The hotel also represents a significant investment in the region’s future, underscores the confidence in its tourism growth potential and contributes to the empowerment of the people of Vhembe region.
According to the group, tourism in South Africa is a vital economic driver, contributing 3.7% to the country’s GDP and providing jobs for approximately 4.7% of the workforce and the opening of this new hotel in Thohoyandou, Venda marks a significant step forward for the Vhembe District’s economy.
“The opening of this hotel marks a significant milestone, not only for the tourism sector, but also for the local community. Beyond the 85 permanent positions created across various hotel operations, an additional 30 to 40 contract and part-time roles will further boost the local economy.
“This translates to improved livelihoods for numerous families, fostering a sense of stability and opportunity,” said the hotel group.
The hotel, encompassing nearly 8,700 square meters of usable space, embodies an environmentally conscious approach that permeates the entire development from energy-efficient systems to responsible water management practices while seamlessly blending luxury with eco-friendliness.
It also serves as a dynamic hub for both business and leisure travellers and features versatile conference space capable of hosting up to 450 delegates, a dedicated business suite, a sophisticated bar and restaurant with a wine bar, an inviting outdoor pool, and a state-of-the-art gym facility.
Commenting on the momentous occasion, Masia said it’s been a privilege to have been afforded a unique opportunity by the Premier Group to work with them as both a technical guide during construction and operator upon completion.
“We requested, from them, the kind of a business relationship they never had in the past and they agreed. We are also equally humbled by the confidence demonstrated by the IDC when they approved funding.
“This augurs well for the transformation project that this country has embarked on that is underpinned by the empowerment of women,” said Masia.
Sigal Nassimov, chief operations officer of Premier Hotels & Resorts, also expressed her enthusiasm at the launch.
“Premier Hotels & Resorts remains committed to expanding its footprint into previously marginalised areas, aiming to stimulate local economies like that of Thohoyandou.
“Partnering with remarkable entrepreneurs such as Ms Masia is integral to our strategy of growth and empowerment across South Africa,” said Nassimov.