EThekwini is ready to host you safely

 

EThekwini is ready 

to host you safely

The municipality has implemented plans to keep holidaymakers safe during the festive season. Visitors and residents are urged to work with law enforcement to ensure a safe and incident-free holiday. To prepare for the high numbers of visitors to eThekwini's beaches, 200 000 wristbands have been procured. All children between the ages of 0 and 12 years on the beachfront will be required to wear a wristband which contains the details of their guardians. If a child is separated from their guardian, 38 child-minders have been employed to look after them until they are reunited with their families. There have been situations where some guardians have abused this service. They leave the children at the care centre and go out and have fun. The minders are aware of this and will report to authorities anyone caught abandoning children. Tags for children can be obtained as follows: For central beaches they are obtained at Addington beach; South beach; Wedge beach between North and Bay Beaches lawns; Battery beach and Laguna beach. In the South the tags are obtainable at Toti Beach in places where tents for separated children will be erected. The overnight facility for lost children that have not been united with their guardians is at Ellis Brown school. Around 65 beach guides will be stationed across the various beaches to help with information and safety and security. An additional 160 seasonal lifeguards have also been deployed at the various beaches. All bathing beaches will be operational between 6am and 6.30pm. There will be road closures especially in roads leading to the beaches. Previously permits were issued for people to access the beach even where there are road closures. This  year that facility is not available in order to limit congestion on the beach parking lots. Measures to close roads have already been implemented as of 12 December with the placement of bollards. The bollards will be manned by Metro Police from Blue Lagoon down to the Point Waterfront. There will also be access control at beaches in the North and the South. Law enforcement officers will also be out in full force to enforce by-laws with about 168 contract security employed. By-laws to be paid more attention to include the no sleeping in cars, buses or beaches, no braaing or open fires on the beach and most importantly no alcohol allowed. To control traffic on the beachfront, certain roads leading to the beachfront will be boom gate controlled. The park and ride facility is available at no cost and will be operational from 7am to 10am and 10pm to 12am on non-peak days. The service will be available on peak days from 10am to 10pm. This service will operate from the Drive-In site. Road safety campaigns to enforce municipal by-laws will also be visible to ensure that unroadworthy vehicles, drunken driving and irresponsible conduct on the road is curbed. Public amenities on the beachfront will be open from Monday to Thursday from 6am to 8pm and on Friday to Sunday and public holidays from 6am to 10pm. On holiday peak days a 24-hour service will be provided at the Point, Addington, South, New Beach, Country Club, eThekwini and Bay of Plenty beaches. ''The public is encouraged to enjoy their holidays and make memories with their loved ones in a considerate and responsible manner. Remember that COVID-19 is still a reality and we must take care of ourselves and those close to us and observe all COVID-19 protocols.'' said Mayor, Cllr Mxolisi Kaunda. 

____________________________________________________________________

Calls for Africa to invest in AIDS research

The global community inclusive of scientists, policy makers, activists, and government leaders from Africa gathered in Durban to review global AIDS strategies and to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on HIV/AIDS. South African Deputy President David Mabuza, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the SA National Aids Council on 6 December opened the 21st International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA). The conference was held virtually from 6 to 11 December to amplify national, continental, and global integration to reach epidemic control in Africa. 

The conference was held under the theme 'Africa's AIDS response: The race to 2030 - Evidence. Scale up. Accelerate.' Deputy President Mabuza called on Africa to invest in research and innovation to build resilient capabilities for the development and manufacture of critical vaccines, drugs, and ancillary medical supplies that will support the roll-out of health programmes on the continent. ''This is the time to move beyond rhetoric and forge collaborative platforms for research and innovation to promote intra-Africa cooperation in the development and provision of health solutions that the continent needs,'' he said. 

''The lesson the COVID-19 vaccine rollout programme has taught us is that as a continent, we need to invest in our own capabilities to overcome the hogging of vaccines by wealthier nations thereby effectively responding to current and future epidemics and pandemics.'' He said Africa was more than capable using the recent example of South African scientists detecting the genome of the Omicron variant and its mutations with precision. Executive Director of UNAIDS Winnie Byanyima said to end AIDS and COVID-19 and to prevent future pandemics, the continent needs to protect human rights and build trust in health system. ''We must deepen the push to eliminate the disproportionate vulnerability of girls to HIV. We must get girls into school and keep them there. While they are in school, they need comprehensive sexual education to provide them with lifesaving information. Across this continent, comprehensive sexual education is opposed by traditional conservative forces. But we must build a movement to make it part of school curriculum and tackle violence against women and children through legislation and the courts,'' said Byanyima. 

So Much to See at Durban Business Fair

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 10, 2021

This December the eThekwini Municipality Business Support Tourism and Markets Unit present the Durban Business Fair (DBF) at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

There is much to see and do at the Durban Business Fair which is on till 12 December 2021.

This event is always a huge tourism attraction at this time of the year for the City of Durban.

‘’Durban has the best tourism products that visitors always want to explore,’’ said eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

Not only can you view the many stalls which feature locally made products by companies based in the Durban area but you can also sample a wide variety of foods and drinks, take part in interesting talks, discussions and go on an authentic Durban culinary experience which features a wide range of foodies and chefs.

Ntando Hlongwane of NYM Group. Image: Fred Felton

‘’I’m excited about the Durban Business Fair, it gives me great exposure,’’ said Ntando Hlongwane of NYM Group. She is based in Isipingo and makes a wide variety of bags featuring African designs. You can find her at the Durban Business Fair at stand 88.

Lungelo Wax Museum Display. Image: Fred Felton 

You might even see the many wax statues that are on display courtesy of the Durban-based Lungelo Wax Museum. There are some celebrities amongst them.

Thobilo Kumalo (left) of Sakhito Investments. Image: Fred Felton

‘’It’s my first time at the Durban Business Fair. I just started this business during the Covid-19 lockdown and I’m grateful for this opportunity,’’ said Thobilo Kumalo, Owner of Sakhitho Investments. She makes a wide range of products from her crochet work. Products include beanies, bags, belts, throws, scarfs, headbands and more. Her business is based in Amanzimtoti. You can find her at the Durban Business Fair at stand 42.

There will also be a Youth Business Connect event for young people. In this seminar, young people will be able to learn how to use innovation and how to move from isolation to disruption. This event happens on 11 December 2021.

Some of the speakers at the Youth Event include author, Dudu Busani-Dube, Lungelo Xaba who owns a company Desired Trendz, that deals in interior design.

You can also meet Captain Londy Ngcobo, Africa’s first female Dredge Master and mingle with Siyanda Calvin Ntenga, the founder of KZN Youth Business Awards.

If you would like to attend the Youth Business Connect event RSVP by email to rsvp@ikhono.co.za

GO! Durban Cycle Academy                      develops young people 

The GO! Durban 

Cycle Academy 

has significantly 

impacted the lives

of young people

through its dynamic youth development programmes since it was started. The Academy was launched in

2016 as a joint initiative between eThekwini Transport Authority (ETA)

and Green Corridors, which promotes a clean environment. It provides free  cycling training, academic support, and life skills opportunities to youth at four sites in the heart of communities in Inanda, Chesterville, KwaDabeka, and KwaMashu. The Go!Durban Cycle Academy began as a pro-active way to encourage a culture of active mobility within communities that don't usually have access to cycle training and equipment, as well as promoting the care of the environment. Now the largest cycling development programme in South Africa, the Academy has 400 beneficiaries between the ages of six and 18 years. Talented riders are recognised and selected to participate in provincial and national events based on technical ability as well as their school academic results according to the 'no pass, no race' rule. One of the young cyclists, Sfundo Dlamini said being part of the Academy has changed his life for the better. ''I have made friends here. My confidence and performance on the track and at school has improved because there are extra lessons offered,'' he said. Although the academy was introduced under the non-motorised transport strategy to promote cycling and caring for the environment in communities, it has since evolved into a well-rounded youth development programme that now incorporates musical theatre academy where youth are enrolled in singing, dancing and acting classes. Recently 10 students from the GO! Durban Academy in Inanda received their national colours at the South African Championships of the Performing Arts (SACOP) held in Rustendburg, in the North West. They returned home with a tally of 20 medals (15 gold, four silver and one bronze). They also won the highest award of the competition, the Grand Champion Group Award. Futhermore, they have all qualified to be part of Team South Africa to represent the country at the World Championships in Los Angeles in July 2022.

For more information: 

cycle@godurban.co.za  

TO MITIGATE the effects of climate change, the Municipality's Parks, Recreation and Culture (PRC) Unit in partnership with Bright Future Special School participated in a tree planting campaign recently. The campaign was held under the theme 'Forest restoration: a path to recovery and well-being' and aimed to create awareness on the importance of planting indigenous trees. The initiative of planting helps to address climate change. The Municipality has several tree planting activities being implemented to educate the public on the role trees play to protect the environment. The Municipality partnered with the school to equip children to become environmental ambassadors. Bright Future School Principal Sipho Nkosi said the partnership is a way to involve learners with special needs in community projects. ''Being part of community projects helps them to feel accepted while gaining skills. The school has also partnered with waste management companies for learners to understand proper waste management,'' he said. 

One Home, One Garden for food security

TO IMPROVE food security in communities, the Municipality's Agri-Ecology Unit recently distributed garden starter kits to 10 families in ward 82 in uMlazi. The handover was done under the banner of One Home, One Garden. The donated kits included a garden fork, hand hoe, wheelbarrow, steel rake and a watering can. Families also received compost as well as beetroot, spinach, beans, carrot, tomato, and butternut seeds. The programme aims to provide vulnerable families with a livelihood intervention by providing household garden essentials to start their own gardens.'' Agro-Ecology has strategies such as the One Home, One Garden programme to eliminate food insecurity and can be a means to provide an income. The  programme promotes food security and sufficient and sustainable food production by enhancing the development, implementation and adoption of sustainable ecosystem-based systems coupled with improved food systems and climate resilient farming methods. The Agro-Ecology Unit will also provide permaculture training to the families. They will also be taught to grow crops on various mediums such as trench beds, vertical gardens, tower gardens and tyre gardens depending on the capacity of the yard and/or the location. A beneficiary, Andiswa Zulu, 40, applauded the initiative. She has started her tyre garden and is growing three types of vegetables. 

Dolphins by Starlight

 

By Fred Felton | Nov 18, 2021

The annual festive season show presented by uShaka Marine World is something for you to look forward to and this year the theme is ‘’A Schrinchmas Musical.’’

Look out for dazzling Dolphins at 'Dolphins by Starlight' | Image: uShaka Marine World

The show will be on 4 nights so book early. You can look forward to plenty of music and dance as the show highlights the importance of unity, togetherness and acceptance.

You can also look forward to aquatic aerobatics from their world-famous uShaka Sea World Dolphins. It is guaranteed to warm your heart at this time of the year.

The theme of this year’s show drew inspiration from the social dynamics that South Africa has faced over the year, while we journey towards overcoming the spirit of togetherness.

‘’Dolphins by Starlight is a Christmas show like no other. It is the only show in Africa where families from all over the continent can gather and spread the Christmas spirit and enjoy our dazzling dolphins under the warm African Sky. It’s a magical show that keeps the entire family entertained from beginning to end,’’ said Ndumiso Miya, Event Coordinator, uShaka Marine World.

An all-star cast awaits you. | Image: uShaka Marine World

You can expect an all-star cast in this show which includes Rowan Bartlett, Tory Du Plessis, Lasandra Majola, Sindi Mabika, Rory Booth and you can also look out for some new talent who will be gracing the stage for the first time, including some of uShaka Marine World’s own staff.  There will be some memorable performances, celebrating what Christmas is all about and welcoming in the 2021 festive season in a lovingly and entertaining way.

Limited seats will be available and those lucky few will be able to experience the live shows from 9 - 12 December 2021 for only R199pp. So bring your blankets and jackets as the Dolphin Stadium is an open-air venue and the Durban weather as we all know, has been unpredictable at times.

 

Come enjoy this spectacle with uShaka Marine World.

 

Why not make a day of it and explore the many attractions at uShaka Marine World including Sea World, Wet n’ Wild, uShaka Kids World, Sea Animal Encounter Island, Dangerous Creatures and the Village Walk. Be sure to explore The Phantom Ship along the way.

 

Dates: 9 - 12 December 

 

Venue: Dolphin Stadium 

 

Gates open: 18:00

 

Show Starts: 19:00

 

Show Ends: 20:00

 

There are a limited number of seats available for this event, so book now at uShaka Ticketing or www.computicket.com to experience the Dolphins by Starlight Musical live.

For more information visit: www.ushakamarineworld.co.za or call 031 328 8000

Address: 1 King Shaka Avenue, Point, Durban. 

Starbucks opens at The Pearls in Umhlanga

 

An exciting new Starbucks South Africa experience has launched at the Pearls in Umhlanga. Widely considered the most prestigious address in KZN, The Pearls luxury boutique mall is a flawlessly iconic slice of the world-famous Golden Coast — a perfect new home for the iconic Starbucks experience.

The new Starbucks at The Pearls in Umhlanga | Image: Starbucks

 

This pristine new Starbucks boasts a beautifully appointed private patio space with Instagrammable views of the Durban coastal skyline. This exclusively exotic spot is perfumed by Starbucks quality coffee roasts and the refreshing salty scents of the sea for a uniquely memorable world-class social experience with friends and family.

 

Warm and friendly service | Image: Starbucks

The brand’s wide range of premium coffees, warm and friendly service, the speciality iced Frappuccinos and other iced beverages promise to be a big hit with local and international visitors to this award-winning tourist spot.

The stunning new Starbucks, run by the UK-Starbucks-trained but proudly local Durbanite, Varny Govender, features the full range of Starbucks hot and cold beverages and a selection of delicious treats, including brownies, macaroons and the famous Chocolate Brownie.

Varny and her team invite customers to visit and enjoy their handcrafted seasonal beverages, including the super-popular Pumpkin Spiced Latte, the indulgently delicious Salted Caramel Latte, crafted from salted caramel-infused milk and espresso shots, or the Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate, a decadent blend of salted caramel-infused milk and Mocha sauce, topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.

Coffee with a view | Image: Starbucks

 

This latest super-stylish Starbucks store is a world-class opportunity to kick back and relax or pull in and work in splendid surroundings brimming with Wi-Fi and plug points. And while you’re there, ask Varny to brew up her personal fav’, “I go for our traditionally brewed filter coffee, simply because of the taste. The superior quality of our coffee is unmatched!”

 

Did you know?

Starbucks coffee is 99% ethically sourced and accredited by Conservation International under the C.A.F.E. Practices programme. Starbucks is committed to ethically sourcing coffee worldwide and including exceptional coffee from nine countries in Africa – Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya, Burundi, Zambia, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

 

For more information, visit www.starbucks.co.za

 

Win a Starbucks Hamper

 

The good folks at Starbucks are giving away a Starbucks hamper just for you filled with goodies to make you smile.

To win this hamper just answer this simple question:

Name one of the countries in Africa where Starbucks sources coffee from?

Send your answer along with your name, email address and cellphone number to

umhlangalife@gmail.com

Remember to put ‘Starbucks competition’ in the subject line of the email.

Competition ends 19 November 2021

 

Ts and Cs apply.

Asimile Siyaqhuba

 

Why Your Vote Is Important

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 27, 2021

The South African municipal elections will be held on 1 November 2021. This is to elect councils for all districts, metropolitan and local municipalities in each of the country’s nine provinces.

Malusi Msomi, IEC Outreach and Communications: eThekwini Metro giving some key insights into the upcoming election. | Photo: Fred Felton 

Malusi Msomi, Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Outreach and Communications: eThekwini Metro gives some key insights into how the election will work and some interesting facts about the voters.

The voters roll is available to the public for objections.

There are also some key dates to take note of. The 30 and 31 October is set aside for Special Votes. This is for voters that cannot travel to a voting station where they are registered because of physically infirmity, disability or pregnancy. For these people a home visit will be done to enable them to vote at home.

For those that cannot vote on voting day they will be able to go on the Special Voting Days to the Voting Station to cast their vote.

The 1 November 2021 is the main Election Day and by law the results have to be declared in 7 days from then.

‘’You might be surprised that some new registrations are people over 65,’’ said Malusi Msomi, IEC Outreach and Communications: eThekwini Metro.

Many of the new registrations are in the age group 18 to 19 years old. The most new registrations are in the age group of 20 to 29 years old.

It is also pleasing to see that many registrations are female especially in KwaZulu-Natal.

In the eThekwini Municipality region there will be 50 political parties contending in the elections.

There will be 111 ward councillors in the eThekwini Municipality region.

‘’EThekwini holds the bulk of the voting stations,’’ noted Malusi Msomi, IEC Outreach and Communications: eThekwini Metro.

Umhlanga Life did a snap survey around Durban and it seems that most people are eager and keen to make their vote on the Election Day.

‘’I always do vote and I care about my Country. So I will go forward for all the people who live in South Africa,’’ said Addington Beach resident Cindy Polydorou.

Another person who will be voting in the election is Umbilo resident Carol de Wet. ‘’I feel one has no right to complain if you don’t try change the status quo,’’ noted Carol de Wet.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda encourages the people of eThekwini to come out in their numbers to cast their vote on 1 November to ensure that the municipality continues to deliver quality service.

‘’Over the past five years, the City has made great strides in delivering over 20 000 housing opportunities. Over 1 million households have access to refuse removal services. Over 1.1 million households receive clean water and 720 households have access to electricity. These services are also provided to our 582 informal settlements and over 370 000 rural households. We have committed ourselves to do even better on service delivery,’’ noted eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

Dates for your Diary:

30 and 31 October 2021 – Special Votes for the Election

1 November 2021 – Election Day

Please take your ID with on the day to the nearest Voting Station in your area where you are registered to vote and remember that all Covid-19 regulations will be in place so please wear your face mask and take along a sanitizer.

For any queries and to check if you are registered to vote call the IEC toll-free number on 0800 11 8000 from a landline.

To check if you are registered to vote you can also SMS your ID number to 32810 (SMS charged at R1 per SMS).

Review of the Samsung Galaxy A22

 

By Fred Felton | October 14, 2021

The Samsung Galaxy A22 is a great entry-level device for those looking to get their first smartphone device and packs an amazing amount of sophistication into a cell phone.

The Samsung Galaxy A22

This week I was invited to try out this Samsung device for myself and it certainly is impressive. The Super Amoled screen with 90Hz refresh rate will certainly dazzle your eyes. It has a 5 000mAh battery which will keep you in the game for quite some time before you need a charge. It also comes in a variety of colours including violet, mint, white and black.

The A22 has four rear cameras

“The Galaxy A22 is an impressive device at excellent value that builds on our growing Galaxy A Series portfolio”, said Justin Hume, Director: Integrated Mobility at Samsung South Africa.

Here are just some of the key features that might just impress you:

Camera

The device has four cameras on the back and a front camera for selfies.

The back cameras include an ultra-wide camera 8MP (F2.2) for those panorama shots.

The main camera boasts 48MP (F1.8), Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS).

The macro camera is 2MP (F2.4) for close-up photography and a depth camera 2MP (F2.4) which will help you if you are looking for that bokeh effect.

The front camera is 13MP (F2.2)

The A22 cameras take rich, vibrant images. | Image: Fred Felton

So for all of you photographers out there you can be guaranteed of hours of fun playing around with these cameras and deciding on which image to upload to your Instagram.

An example of the zoom feature on the camera. 

Professional photographers can also play around with the settings to get the best shot.

Memory and Storage

This is probably one of main selling points for any device besides the battery. The A22 comes with 4GB Ram and 64 GB Internal Storage. Some models can also have 4GB / 6GB Ram and 128 GB Internal Storage which will mean that you have plenty of space and if you run out of space the device has capacity for a memory card if you need one.

Processor

The device comes with an Octa-Core (Dual 2GHz and Hexa 1.8GHz) processor.

Display

This A22 comes equipped with 6.4 inch³ HD and Super AMOLED, 90Hz Infinity-U Display.

Network

This device comes with LTE and some devices are also equipped with 5G as well.

Security

The A22 has a range of security options for you from the side-mounted fingerprint detector to facial recognition, pattern codes and normal security codes so you can rest assured that nobody will be getting into your device but you.

Extras

To power up the device press and hold the side key for a few seconds. The A22 takes around 30 seconds from start-up to initialization.

The size of the device is adequate and it should fit into your pocket with no problem.

Some of the added features I noticed which did impress me was the introduction of many more ringtones which included a rich variety including classical music like Mozart to disco, tech, dance and even love songs. Notification sounds have also been given an update and there are many more nifty little sounds to choose from for those messages you need to hear.

The nifty side volume keys have become more visual with visual displays to show you the various volume settings to choose from.

The device also comes with Dolby Atmos for a richer sound experience.

Dark mode has also been included for all of your display options.

An eye comfort shield has also been introduced which limits blue light and uses warmer colours. This makes it easier to use at night as well.

Screen zoom also makes it a pleasure to read all of those messages and documents.

Although the A22 comes equipped with a 90Hz screen refresh rate you can also use the standard option with 60Hz screen refresh to save on battery.

As with all the other Samsung models this device comes with all the bells and whistles including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Flight Mode, Torch, Power Saving, QR Code scanner, Screen shot, NFC and Contactless Payment and much more.

Apps include Samsung Notes, Samsung Apps, Google Apps, Microsoft Apps, Samsung Members, Galaxy Store, Play Store, Facebook, Spotify Netflix, You Tube Music and the Samsung Game Launcher, Voice Recorder, AR Zone and even a Radio to listen to tunes.

The calendar has a much more visual appeal to it and you can even add emoticons, stickers and voice notes to a calendar entry which is a nice touch.

The calculator features a much more updated version which can calculate anything from area, length, temperature, volume, mass, data, speed, time and scientific calculations.  

Find My Mobile is a good setting to activate to ensure you never lose your device.

Final Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy A22 is great device if you are looking to get your first smartphone. It currently retails for a price of R3999. Some retailers are selling it cheaper so you might even get it at a bargain price.

If you want to score yourself an even bigger bargain you can take advantage of getting a cashback towards this device by trading in your older device with Samsung.

For more information visit: www.samsung.com/za/trade-in/

Rating

7/10

Durban Keeps Winning Awards

 

By Fred Felton | September 26, 2021

The City of Durban has won a wide variety of awards in the last decade. In this month of September which is Tourism and Heritage Month we take a closer look at these awards.

Environmental Awards

Bronze Beach, Umhlanga | Image: Fred Felton 

Durban has some of the most pristine beaches in KwaZulu-Natal and the City has won a variety of awards including 2012 Winner for ‘’SA’s Greenest City Award’’, 2013 and 2014 ‘’Arbor City Award’’ and 1^st African 100 Resilient Cities Partner (Rockerfeller Foundation).

Tourism Awards

Umhlanga Pier rated best globally by CNN | Image: Fiona Wainwright

Durban was rated in ‘’Top 10 Oceanfront Cities’’ globally in 2015 by National Geographic.

CNN voted Durban as one of the ‘’Top 10 most underrated cities’’ and they recently voted ‘’Umhlanga Pier’’ as the best globally and they voted the City ‘’Coolest City in SA’’.

Durban is predicted to be one of the fastest growing tourism cities in Africa and could be one of the fastest growing tourism city’s worldwide, as predicted by the Master Card Global Destination City Index.

The City was rated by the New York Times as number 7 of their Top 52 Places to Go in 2015.

Transport Awards

The People Mover. One of the cheapest forms of transport in the City. | Image: Fred Felton

Durban was rated as #1 in South Africa on the ‘’Top 10 Cheapest Countries for Transport’’ in the 2014 GoEuro.com Report. This was for train, bus and air transportation.

SKYTRAX ranked King Shaka International Airport as the Best Airport Staff in Africa for 2017 and 2^nd best airport in Africa by ACI, handling circa 5 million passengers.

Heritage Awards

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) named Durban the UNESCO City of Literature and it is the first African City to receive this prestigious status.

‘’We recognise the important role that our rich and diverse cultural heritage has in helping build our nation. There is no doubt that our history and heritage present an opportunity for growing tourism thereby boosting the economy,’’ said Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda, eThekwini Municipality Mayor.

Investment Awards

Durban was included in the ‘’7 Emerging Luxury Housing Markets To Watch in 2015’’ by Christies International Real Estate Group.

The City recently bagged the ‘’CNN Money/International Investor’’ Award for ‘’Best FDI City in Africa’’ in 2020.

Durban is the ‘’Most Affordable of all SA Metro Cities to live in’’ according to the 2021 ‘’Numbeo and Expatism’’ Cost of Living indices.

The City has also been nominated for ‘’Best FDI Destination South Africa’’ in 2021 for the Bloomberg Decision Maker Business Awards 2021.

‘’Let us work together with all stakeholders to boost our campaigns to market Durban and ensure that we also target the continental tourists. Durban boasts world-class malls, hotels and excellent culinary tourism experience that can match any city in the world,’’ noted eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

The City of Durban recently launched the 2021 ‘’My City, My Heritage’’ campaign and it calls on all citizens of Durban to highlight and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that makes Durban a melting pot of diverse cultures.

Thanks to these many awards Durban is ready to host world-class events in a safe and secure environment.

My City, My Heritage campaign to boost tourism

 

To revive the City's tourism sector, eThekwini Municipality on 10 September launched the My City, My Heritage campaign at uShaka Marine World. The campaign looks at travel and tourism in a new way, reminding visitors how culturally diverse the City is by showcasing its hidden gems. The campaign was launched by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda during Tourism and Heritage Month. Industry stakeholders lauded the initiative calling it an innovative marketing tool to aid the recovering tourism sector which has been adversely affected by Covid-19 and th recent civil unrest. Mayor Kaunda said: ''Through this campaign we are going to unearth and showcase Durban's hidden gems to promote domestic tourism. This will be achieved through several roadshows, digital activations and competitions encouraging people to rediscover Durban through heritage tourism.'' He said the campaign will take South Africa on a digital historical journey of Durban, to rediscover the City through media campaigns. Mayor Kaunda said there has already been an increase in visitors to the City. They are projecting increased visitor numbers during the heritage public holiday long weekend from 23 to 26 September and the October school holidays from 1 to 10 October. ''For the September long weekend, we are anticipating 60 percent visitor occupancy which equates to 75 000 visitors, a direct spend of R103 million, injection of R256 million to the GDP and 550 jobs being created. For the October school holidays we are forecasting a 55 percent visitor occupancy which translates to 90 000 visitors including day visitors, R192 million direct spend and R476 million contribution to the GDP. Around 1 020 jobs will be created,'' he said. Chief Executive Officer of uShaka Marine World Ndabo Khoza said: ''We are prepared to work with the City as stakeholders to ensure Durban is a destination of choice. As a coastal city, it is imperative to showcase and educate people about marine life. We encourage residents to be visitors and explore their own City.'' 

Community tourism boosts economy, history and pride

The month of September is known as Tourism and Heritage month. What better way to celebrate both than with exploring the history, heritage and fun in rural and township settings. We encourage you to take pride in your history and heritage by visiting a tourism office near you. EThekwini Municipality's strategy to revive the tourism sector in townships through funding the Durban's nine Community Tourism Organisations has yielded positive results. The municipality has aided Community Tourism Organisations (CTOs) in the municipal area through many programmes and as a result, beneficiaries are showing signs of growth in their establishments. This is despite the adverse effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has affected many businesses, particularly small, medium and miro enterprises. The Municipality, through its Economic Recovery plan has assisted several tourism establishments to get back on their feet during the lockdown and to be ready for business. Some of the relief measures included additional rates rebates - specific to the accommodation sector, assistance with marketing initiatives, support for online/virtual events and prioritising bed and breakfast establishments for Municipal business. Furthermore, the Municipality recently increased funding by 100 percent to CTO's from R250 000 to R500 000 to market local areas and create new tourism packages. At a recent Durban Tourism Imbizo eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said: ''Government is going to invest more resources in this sector by increasing support to industry players and establishing new tourism corridors in rural and township communities.'' ''The fact that 68 percent of our geographic space is constituted by rural areas, eThekwini has an important task of ensuring that the economic opportunities available in the tourism sector reach these communities.'' Commenting on the role of the CTO in the growth of her business, Lungi Ngcobo - founder of Clermont Lodge - said the support they have received from the Clermont CTO has been amazing. She said her establishment recently received R50 000 in Covid-19 relief funding from the national Tourism Depatment which was facilitated by the local CTO. UMlazi CTO's Public Relations Officer Portia Mkhize said uMlazi has a lot to offer regarding tourism attractions, with shisanyamas being just a small part of the product. ''We are currently developing different tour routes packages for uMlazi, Ngonyameni, Lamontville and surrounding areas showcasing the history of these townships, including bicycle and quad biking guided tours,'' she said. Mkhize said the current focus was ensuring that these are developed for domestic travel first before getting ready for international tourists. 

Limited Launch Gifts With Samsung Galaxy Z Series 5G

 

Samsung recently launched their new Galaxy Z series with the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G and now you can get them with some extra-special launch gifts.

                                                                                          
                                    

                                               

Pre-order now to receive limited launch gifts

When you pre-order or purchase during the September to 20 October 2021 promotional period¹, you will receive an exclusive offer, that includes the new Galaxy Buds2, the must-have Galaxy Smart Tag and the peace of mind of Samsung Care+, all valued at R5 200². The free one-year Samsung Care+ plan will provide one accidental screen and/ or back cover repair, and will include a battery replacement. You can upgrade to the Samsung Care+ Premium plan at an affordable cost, for additional cover, which includes liquid, motherboard and external casing damage.

 

Select your new favourite foldable

Galaxy Z Fold3

Built for those who need the ultimate device to power their productivity and maximise every moment. Galaxy Z Fold3 5G combines power, efficiency and immersive viewing so you can check off your to-do list faster and have more time for next-gen gaming, content viewing and video calling. With a screen size that allows you to run up to three apps at once, it’s the ultimate productivity tool for modern multi-taskers. For the first time ever on a foldable, Samsung has added S Pen support⁴, so that you can jot down reminders directly on its immersive, large screen or join an online video call on your top half of screen and take notes with your S Pen on the bottom half, by just clicking the screen twice. 

When you’re enjoying some me-time, you can easily immerse yourself in your favourite show or sports game, undisrupted, thanks to the 7.6-inch Main Screen and Under display camera. From productivity to performance to portable entertainment on the go, the Galaxy Z Fold3 is the ultimate powerhouse device.

 

Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

For those who need a device that’s as stylish as they are, the Galaxy Z Flip 3 empowers you to express yourself with bold colour options, a sleek, compact rectangular design that  fits effortlessly in your pocket, and trendy new accessories. Unfold and snap a stunning selfie with the  Galaxy Z Flip3’s camera features including Flex mode and its unique ability to stand upright, with a  symmetrical and balanced design, that opens up to an angle that best fits your vision. Then add to your social feed, which scrolls smoother than ever with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Enjoy easier ways to pay, play, and check your notifications fast on its larger cover screen, without ever flipping open your phone. 

Choosing the Galaxy Z Flip3 means getting more of what you crave, your way, whatever you’re doing, whether the device is open or closed. Galaxy Z Flip3 is more than a folding phone, it’s a statement. 

Whether you flip or fold, both new Galaxy Z devices offer our most durable, connected, and expansive foldable experiences ever. Building on a legacy of impeccable craftsmanship, they are equipped with water-resistance⁵, Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus™, Armor Aluminium, an optimised panel layer, and an improved protective film.

Click here for more information about the Galaxy Z Fold3 and the Galaxy Z Flip3.

 

¹Terms and conditions apply. The promotion period depends on retailer.

For Vodacom customers the Promotion Period will end 6th October 2021.

For MTN customers Promotion Period will end 30th September 2021.

For Cell C customers Promotion period will end 17th October 2021.

For Telkom customers Promotion period will end 20th October 2021.

For Takealot customers Promotion period will end 30th September 2021.

²Users that pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold3 or Z Flip3 will get a year of Samsung Care+ protection.

Samsung Care+ for Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 requires a free registration within 30 days from the phone’s purchase date through Samsung Members or the Samsung care plus page . A R 999 repair fee will be charged per incident for the Samsung Care+ protection on the Z Fold3 | Z Flip3. Protection coverage and availability may vary by market. Full information on Samsung Care+ is available at https://www.samsung.com/za/offer/samsung-care-plus/

³Price may vary by retailer

⁴S Pen sold separately. Only Z Fold3 Main Screen has S Pen capability. Compatible only with the S Pen Fold Edition and S Pen Pro. All other S Pens or stylus pens not designed for Z Fold3 (including those by other manufacturers) may damage the screen.

⁵Rated as IPX8. Based on test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 meter of freshwater for up to 30 minutes..