Mbombela – The province of the rising sun, Mpumalanga, is abuzz with activities leading to the prestigious Metro Music Awards (MMA) event to be held at Mbombela stadium on Saturday.
This is the first MMA since the Covid-19 pandemic stopped outdoor activities around the globe.
A full-capacity crowd is expected at the venue. Reports suggest the event is a sold-out affair.
Themed Black is Back the MMA is a child brain project of the nationwide biggest black urban radio station, Metro FM.
The Johannesburg-based radio station has a partnership agreement with the Mpumalanga provincial government to have the MMA hosted in the province for the next three years.
The announcement was made during the SOPA by Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, outlining that the mutual agreement would boost the tourism, arts, and culture sectors, which will improve the economy in the province.
“I am happy to announce that we have partnered with the SABC to host the prestigious Metro Music Awards, for the next three years, as part of our efforts to bolster tourism in the province and heighten our focus on the Arts and Culture industry,” Mtshweni-Tsipane announced during the SOPA.
The MMA attracts crowds from all walks of life in South Africa and neighboring countries such as Swaziland and Mozambique.
The Premier promised visitors to Mpumalanga the best hospitality, as the province is known for its best tourist attractions and hospitality.
“We pride ourselves as a province with a good track record of hosting successful events, based on the 2010 Soccer World Cup experience,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
She emphasized that the security measures and the high commitment of tourism operators as key to the successful hosting of the MMA.
“Our security agencies, led by the South African Police Service, are on high alert to keep the visitors safe,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
“The hotels and B & B facilities are committed to the highest standards of accommodation and catering services for the visitors.
“We will leave no stone unturned, to give our visitors a memorable experience in Mpumalanga.”