Southern Sun Hotels and eThekwini Municipality Sign 50-Year Lease

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 11, 2025

The eThekwini Municipality and Southern Sun Hotels recently signed a R1 billion lease on 29 October for the redevelopment of two of Durban’s iconic hotels, the Elangeni and Maharani Towers.

EThekwini Municipality and Southern Sun Hotels signed a 50-year lease agreement to redevelop the Elangeni and Maharani Towers. The partnership will also see the upgrade of nearby amenities, including a Municipal park. | Photo: Supplied. 

The current lease for these hotels is set to expire in December 2025.

This new 50-year lease was won by Southern Sun after a fair and transparent bidding process. This was after a Request for Proposals from industry in November 2023.

This lease agreement is a major part of the Municipality’s Proactive Land Release Strategy and allows the Municipality to realise its vision as set out in the Inner City Local Area Plan, which aims to protect and enhance the beachfront as a key tourism asset.

This R1 billion capital investment will see R622 million go to the upgrade of the Elangeni and Maharani, R157 million for movable assets and R348 million on two additional hotels owned by the same entity.

This is part of a functionality requirement that required bidders to further invest in the Durban beachfront precinct.

There will also be another R5 million invested towards the development of the Sunken Gardens, a Municipal park opposite the Elangeni and Maharani hotels.

‘’The integrity of the Golden Mile depends on these hotels. They are not just structures, they are symbols of Durban’s identity, resilience, and ambition. We extend our deep gratitude to Southern Sun as this lease agreement is a declaration of intent that Durban will grow broadly and inclusively,’’ said Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli, representing eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Chairperson of the Human Settlements, Engineering, and Transport Committee Councillor Themba Mvubu noted that the City’s Land Release Strategy aims to turn Municipal assets into engines of growth and empowerment.

‘’A resilient city anticipates change, adapts, and draws strength from partnerships. By building alliances between public and private sectors, the City and community, and infrastructure and events; we will fortify Durban’s future and harness tourism for inclusive growth. This will help uphold our status as Africa’s premier destination for festivals, events, and tourism,’’ said eThekwini City Manager Dr Musa Mbhele.

This redevelopment will see modernised rooms, restaurants, rooftop experiences, conference spaces, and sustainable solutions like solar power and water-saving systems.

‘’All our hotels are commercially viable despite some challenges we have experienced. EThekwini Municipality sees us as a partner, and we are looking forward to working together towards a common goal,’’ noted CEO of Southern Sun Marcel von Aulock.

Von Aulock also revealed that since the launch of their summer sale, 70 percent of their bookings are for Durban, which shows that visitors are just as supportive of their vision for the City.

Lifeguards Honoured by City

 

By Fred Felton | Nov.9, 2025

As the City prepares for the festive season the eThekwini Municipality has honoured its lifeguards for their dedication to water safety.

Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala survived a 2018 brutal attack. He was honoured at the ceremony. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

The awards ceremony was hosted by the Municipality’s Recreation and Parks Directorate at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 5 November to recognise beach and swimming pool lifesavers for their service.

‘’Your tireless efforts and commitment to keeping our communities safe are truly appreciated. We thank you for representing the City well to thousands of families who visit our beaches and swimming pools,’’ said Chairperson of the Community Services Committee Councillor Zama Sokhabase.

She noted that the City expects large crowds at beaches and swimming pools during the holidays and she had confidence that lifeguards were thoroughly able to handle emergencies.

EThekwini lifeguards were honoured and awarded for their bravery and professional excellence in saving lives. These everyday heroes play a vital role throughout the year, preventing drownings and ensuring public safety through vigilant supervision. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

‘’We acknowledge that you guys are the heroes of the City,’’ said Dr S.E. Ndlovu, Director Recreation and Parks.

There were many lifeguards honoured at the ceremony and among those was Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala who survived a 2018 brutal attack that resulted in the amputation of his leg. Gwala has continued to do well in both lifesaving and global sports, earning much praise.

Senior Lifeguard Sihle Xaba was also recognised for his recent victory at the South African Bodyboard Championships and for representing the country in international surfing events.

‘’You are our unsung heroes, your dedication does not go unnoticed,’’ noted Mr Troye Brown, Chairperson Lifesaving KwaZulu Natal. 

The lifeguards also renewed their oath to protect lives during the ceremony, which ended with the unpacking of new uniforms for beach lifeguards and swimming pool supervisors.

These new uniforms show the Municipality’s commitment to safety and professionalism during the festive season.

Boost for businesses owned by people with disabilities

 

Boost for businesses owned by people with disabilities

ETHEKWINI Municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to support entrepreneurs with disabilities through the handover of essential business equipment recently at The Station Urban Event Space.

The handover was led by Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli in partnership with the Department of Small Business Development.

Ninety four beneficiaries from the eThekwini Disability Business Chamber received tools to boost their businesses. Equipment handed over included laptops, printers, cameras, cooking stoves, grass-cutting machines, industrial sewing machines, washing machines, and fridges.

This support was provided under the Informal Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP), which is a programme of the Department of Small Business Development focusing on empowering small businesses and cooperatives, particularly in townships and rural areas.

Councillor Ntuli said: ‘’The handover of equipment to informal traders is a significant step towards empowering small businesses cooperatives. Through initiatives like the IMEDP together with national government, we are committed to creating opportunities for growth, job creation, and economic transformation in our community,’’ said Councillor Ntuli.

By equipping businesses with the right tools, the programme helps them grow, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

Noko Manyelo, Acting Head of Communications and Marketing at the Department of Small Business Development said: ‘’This initiative represents more than just a handover of equipment; it is about restoring dignity and creating real opportunities.’’

DFF Recognition Awards celebrate top fashion talent

 

DFF Recognition Awards celebrate top fashion talent

THIRTEEN outstanding eThekwini fashion designers and new models were honoured at the Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) Recognition Awards on 26 September at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

Sibu Msimang, recipient of the Durban Fashion Fair Special Recognition Award, was honoured for her two-decade career in fashion. She is flanked by the Chairperson of the City's Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli and eThekwini Municipality's SMME Development Director, Nonku Mthembu. | Photo: Supplied. 

The awards formed part of the 2025 Durban Business Fair Excellence Awards, which celebrate thriving small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises across the City.

Mzwandile Mathonsi, founder of the ladieswear brand ZWANDYY, won the top honour of Durban Designer of the Year. His award-winning collection, Beauty in Black, was inspired by his community and personal journey.

Another highlight of the evening was the Special Recognition Award presented to Sibu Msimang, whose career spans more than two decades and includes both local and international showcases.

Other winners included Slo Makhanya, founder of Nomalawee, who received the Collection of the Week Award along with R15 000 in support for her African modern collection featuring multi-functional garments with volume and layers.

Thami Njabulo, head of Monarch Detailer, won Best Menswear Collection, while Pinky Dlamini’s Modesta received Best Ladieswear Collection. The Fashion Innovator Award went to Kireshen Chetty, a designer and architect celebrated for his innovative designs.

Dfant Fashion Clothing was named Next Generation / Emerging Durban Designer. The DFF Rising Star Awards went to Melissa Dlamini in first place, Siphesihle Khumalo in second place, and Siphumelele Shange in third place.

In the modelling category, Sithembiso Mhlongo won New Face Male, Zandile Lungwase received New Face Female, and Mandisa Khuboni was awarded New Face Plus Size.

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said the DFF Recognition Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the City’s fashion talent.

‘’These awards are part of eThekwini’s Fashion Development Programme and follow a highly successful DFF showcase, which connected local talent with various industry roleplayers. For over a decade, the Fashion Development Programme has been a vital platform for designers to access markets while promoting local manufacturing, entrepreneurship and job creation. It is crucial that we continue to support these designers with enterprise development tools,’’ said Councillor Ntuli.

New road unveiled as part of Public Service Month

 

New road unveiled as part of Public Service Month

TO COMMEMORATE Public Service Month, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba led a series of impactful activities aimed at improving service delivery and engaging directly with both Municipal staff and the public.

Kicking off the Public Service Month activities on 25 September, Mayor Xaba led a walkabout at the Revenue Customer Services Centre based in the Florence Mkhize Building. During the walkabout, he interacted with frontline staff and observed operations.

Mayor Xaba also visited the Arrears Management Section to assess the revenue clearance and sale in execution processes, reinforcing the City’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and resident-focused services.

Following this, Mayor Xaba officially opened a newly upgraded 2km blacktop road in Inkangala, Emagabheni. Previously a gravel road, this R6.3 million low-volume road project was designed internally and now connects rural households to the main road, significantly improving mobility and access. The upgrade has positively impacted service delivery, particularly for water tankers that previously struggled to reach the community due to poor road conditions.

Mayor Xaba said water delivery is now consistent and reliable in the area. ‘’We are also encouraged that this project contributed to local economic empowerment, employing several community members, which included women and youth.’’

He added: ‘’The initiative reflects the Batho Pele Principles by placing residents at the heart of service delivery. These activities form part of our 2030 vision.’’

Highlights from reSURGEnce Durban 2025

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 12, 2025

A successful reSURGEnce Conference Durban 2025 was recently held from 20 to 24 September at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

From business showcases and tech innovation to impactful discussions and cultural tours, Durban came alive with ideas, opportunities, and action during the reSURGEnce Conference. | Photo: Supplied. 

The two days of the conference brought together leaders, investors, innovators, stakeholders and entrepreneurs from Africa and the World.

The focus of the conference was focused on strategies to ensure the continent’s economy is inclusive and shared by all. Delegates left with renewed purpose and plans to create opportunities for small businesses, unlock global trade links, and drive growth for all.

Talks focused on empowering historically disadvantaged businesses, regenerating urban spaces without displacing communities, and positioning Durban as a technology hub through the Silicon Durban initiative, which was inspired by the successful Silicon Harlem in New York.

Silicon Harlem’s Chief Executive Officer, Clayton Banks, shared key insights on how Durban can replicate this model to become Africa’s rising tech hub.

‘’We are planning to leverage existing structures as reporting lines to ensure Durban delivers on the commitments made here,’’ said eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele.

He also gave key steps to achieve this which included: ongoing mentorship and export readiness programmes for historically disadvantaged businesses, creating a digital youth database, improving access for small businesses through streamlined purchasing platforms, and aligning local and U.S.A trade frameworks.

‘’We are optimistic that the partnerships forged here will translate into sustainable jobs, thriving businesses, and a resilient City economy. Together, we are rewriting the story of Africa’s place in global trade,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

One of the many businesses that had a stand at the exhibition. | Photo: Supplied. 

The conference also featured business engagements and exhibitions. Five local businesses exhibiting were chosen to present on stage to all the delegates.

‘’Being part of reSURGEnce Durban gave me maximum exposure. I gained new customers from outside South Africa, including Uganda. This opportunity has opened the door for my business to grow internationally,’’ said Thando Chisane of Uthando Glow Skin.

The conference ended on 24 September and then delegates explored the City’s historic and cultural landmarks in commemoration of Heritage Day.

Nu Metro Gateway Now Open

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 7, 2025

Nu Metro opened its newest flagship cinema at Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Friday, 3 October.

 

The cinema complex is full of luxury, innovation, and immersive entertainment in the heart of Umhlanga Ridge.

 

The Nu Metro Gateway complex has 9 state-of-the-art cinemas, including the country’s first-ever ScreenX auditorium.  This features a 270-degree panoramic format that surrounds the audience with visuals on three walls.

 

Guests can also experience 4DX, Scene Xtreme, and a dedicated Kidz Cinema. There is also VIP Premiere Cinemas with plush leather recliners, an exclusive lounge area, and a gourmet curated menu with full-service bar.

 

‘’This complex sets the benchmark for what the future of cinema should feel like,’’ said Beverley Govender, Senior Marketing Manager, at Nu Metro.

 

Expect loads of giveaways, loyalty rewards, exclusive competitions, VIP ticket giveaways and surprises in October. For October you can experience ScreenX for only R100 and see F1, How to Train your Dragon and Superman. 

 

Get tickets at the box office or online at numetro.co.za  

EThekwini Appoints FNB as Banking Partner

 

First National Bank (FNB) has been appointed as the Municipality’s new banking partner, effective from 1 October 2025.

In accordance with the regulations set out by the Minister of Finance, the Municipality’s banking contract is reviewed and subject to change every five years through a public tender process. With the current contract expiring on 30 September 2025, the Municipality concludes a successful 10 year partnership – two full terms – with Nedbank.

Following the public tender process, which was open to financial institutions registered under the Banking Act, FNB emerged as the successful bidder, offering the most competitive and cost-effective proposal.

As the Municipality’s new banking partner, FNB will provide a comprehensive range of services including:

•       A user-friendly banking system

•       Competitive bank charges and commissions

•       A real-time, dedicated support team

•       Bulk cash handling facilities

•       Speed point terminal services

•       Internet and electronic banking solutions

•       Bank guarantees and overdraft facilities

•       Defined overdraft facilities

•       Electronic foreign exchange payment capabilities

•       Market agency services

 

‘’We are excited to welcome FNB as our banking partner and look forward to a productive and value-driven partnership,’’ said eThekwini City Manager, Musa Mbhele.

 

FNB’s Provincial Head – Commercial Public Sector, Annie Spangenberg, said the institution is delighted to partner with eThekwini.

The Rocky Horror Show at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre till 12 Oct

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 28, 2025

KickstArt is back with a brand-new production of the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Show, with performances at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre up till 12 October.

Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet, Tshepo Ncokoane as Frank N Furter, Bryan Hiles as Brad. Photo: Val Adamson. 

The show is directed by Steven Stead, with set designs by multi award-winning Greg King, costume designs by internationally lauded Monaco-based Terrence Bray. Musical director is Evan Roberts who leads a live onstage band playing all the classics like The Time Warp, Transvestite, Touch-a-Touch Me and Damn It, Janet. Choreography is done by Simone Mann.

The cast list is impressive and includes Tshepo Ncokoane as the iconic cross-dressing mad scientist, Frank N Furter, Durban actor Bryan Hiles as Brad, Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet. Schoeman Smit as Riff Raff, Belinda Henwood as Magenta, Kaylee McIlroy as Columbia, William Young as Rocky, Lyle Buxton as Eddie/Dr Scott, and Michael Gritten as The Narrator.

The Rocky Horror Show  is a delicious homage to kitsch and campy B-grade horror and science fiction movies. Interesting note, it is also credited for igniting the punk rock look of ripped fishnets, statement eyeliner, wild, dyed hair and not to mention scarlet red lipstick.

The Rocky Horror Show  runs at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in  Durban till 12 October. Performances are at 7h30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 2h30pm Saturday and 6pm on Sunday.

Bookings through Webtickets.

New school brings hope to Cornubia

 

New school brings hope to Cornubia 

LETHIWE NGCOBO

KWAZULU-NATAL MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka, together with eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba and other City leadership officially unveiled the Solomon Mahlangu Primary School in Cornubia Phase 1.

The event marked a significant step in the City’s commitment to building integrated, dignified communities. Cornubia is already home to over 2 600 Breaking New Ground houses that are occupied. Initially operating from mobile classrooms with just 151 learners, the school has now grown into a state-of-the-art institution serving more than 1 800 learners from Grades R to 7.

The school stands as a tribute to struggle hero Solomon Mahlangu. The project cost R61.9 million, including professional fees, and created employment for 98 community members during the construction phase.

MEC Hlomuka said: ‘’Investing in education is key to ensuring the City’s future is in capable hands.’’ Parent Nompumelelo Kheswa expressed her appreciation for the school. ‘’Having this school nearby has been life-changing as transport fees previously were high,’’ said Kheswa.

Employment for 54 graduates

 

Employment for 54 graduates

LETHIWE NGCOBO

FIFTY-FOUR young people are now permanently employed after taking part in the Work Readiness Programme (WRP). This is a collaborative initiative between the City, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, and the Global Business Services sector.

The City, together with stakeholders, celebrated the graduation of participants recently. All the graduates have secured permanent positions at Amalfi, a local Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) contact centre. The WRP equips unemployed youth with vital skills for the BPO sector, preparing them for participation in the formal economy.

Among the 54 graduates honoured at the ceremony was Nqobile Ngcobo, a qualified accountant. After struggling to find work in her field, Ngcobo embraced the opportunity offered by the WRP. She joined Amalfi in April as a sales consultant on a Canadian campaign. Her hard work paid off as she was promoted to Quality Analyst where she ensures products and services meet the high standards set as well as oversees daily operations at the call centre.

Another inspiring story is that of Angelene Johnson who holds a degree in psychology. She started the programme in April as a sales consultant and has since risen to the role of Team Leader. In her new position, she is responsible for guiding, managing and supporting her team to meet their goals.

Nomsa Mkhize, fresh out of high school, also celebrated a proud milestone. She not only graduated from the programme but also secured a permanent position with Amalfi BPO. She began her journey as a helpdesk support agent for a Canadian internet service provider. Her achievement stands as a testament that determination coupled with opportunities made available through the WRP, can lead to success.

Elation as 20 flood-displaced families receive new homes

 

SIMPHIWE DLAMINI

TEARS of joy flowed when 66-year-old pensioner Bhekile Mlambo received the keys to her brand-new home from the Minister of Human Settlements Thembi Simelane, MEC of Human Settlements Siboniso Duma and eThekwini Speaker Councillor Thabani Nyawose.

Mlambo was among 20 families who officially took occupation of permanent houses in the Illovo Housing Project during a house handover ceremony in Illovo, South of Durban recently. All the beneficiaries were displaced during the 2022 flood disasters, which left hundreds of people homeless across KwaZulu-Natal. The Illovo Housing Project, with an allocated budget of R9 million, has seen R2 million spent on 13 units. A total of 37 sites have been earmarked for development.

The house handover also signaled the closure of the Adams and Ilfracombe Transitional Emergency Accommodation, where these families had been living since the floods displaced them.

Minister Simelane said the project marks a turning point in government’s commitment to restore dignity to affected families. ‘’This project is important as the beneficiaries come from a place of devastation and deep pain. Through collaborative work with councillors, community leaders, and officials, we ensured that beneficiaries from the disaster, as well as local housing applicants from Illovo, were accommodated fairly in line with our housing allocation system,’’ said Minister Simelane. She further explained that the Illovo initiative forms part of a broader human settlements programme responding to the 2022 floods, with a total of 1 140 permanent houses under construction across eThekwini.

The remaining families will be housed at the Montclair Lodge and Cornubia Temporary Residential Units between December 2025 and January 2026, while awaiting completion of their permanent homes by June 2027. Minister Simelane emphasised that the Department is working to close temporary shelters. ‘’The tears of relief we witnessed today are a reminder that government must accelerate delivery,’’ she said.

KEY HOUSING INTERVENTIONS INCLUDE:

·         20 families now settled in permanent homes at Illovo (August 2025).

·         1 200 houses currently being built in Cornubia (construction commenced in August 2025).

·         113 families set to occupy their Cornubia homes by December 2025.

·         692 flood victims scheduled to receive homes in Cornubia by December 2026.

Africa's Travel Indaba Back in Durban for Next Five Years

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 17, 2025

Durban has confirmed its status as Africa’s leading tourism destination by getting the green light to host Africa’s Travel Indaba for the next five years, starting in 2026.

Africa's Travel Indaba Back in Durban. 

Following a rigorous and competitive procurement process which was led by South African Tourism, Durban came out on top as the ideal location to showcase Africa’s vibrant tourism offerings.

This underscores the City’s status as a leading tourism destination, well known for its cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and world-class Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) facilities. Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 is scheduled to take place from 11 to 14 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC).

Africa’s Travel Indaba is Africa’s largest and most influential tourism trade show, bringing together buyers, exhibitors, media, and tourism stakeholders from around the world. This event is a vital platform for promoting tourism trade and investment.

‘’We are proud to have Durban host Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2026. This event is more than just a showcase of tourism, it is an economic catalyst, a driver of job creation, and a strategic opportunity to position Africa as a premier travel destination on the global stage,’’ said Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

Durban is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for the region, including increased tourism spend, job creation and investment in local infrastructure and services when the event comes around next year.

The long-term economic benefits include increased tourism arrivals, enhanced global visibility, and the potential for Durban to attract film productions and international events, contributing to sustained economic growth.

‘’Hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba for the next five years is a tremendous opportunity for Durban to showcase its unique offerings and strengthen its position as Southern Africa’s tourism hub. We look forward to welcoming industry leaders from around the world and creating meaningful business opportunities for local entrepreneurs and stakeholders. We also want to extend our gratitude to Minister de Lille and the South African Tourism team for their ongoing commitment to supporting Durban and other host cities in delivering world-class, sustainable events that drive tourism growth across the continent,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Partnership with Tourism Sector Reinforced by Mayor Xaba

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 7, 2025

Durban’s tourism stakeholders expressed enthusiasm following a productive engagement session with eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba and City leadership.

The Mayoral Tourism Trade Stakeholder Engagement Breakfast held earlier this week brought together trade, government, private sector, and community stakeholders to shape a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient tourism future. | Photo: Supplied. 

At a recent Mayoral Tourism Trade Stakeholder engagement held earlier this week at the Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani Hotel, the Mayor met with over 90 representatives from a variety of tourism sectors in the tourism industry. This included businesses, private sector, associations, and key trade stakeholders.

The aim of the gathering was to discuss sector development, addressing existing challenges, promoting new programmes, and gathering valuable feedback. This engagement aimed to strengthen partnerships, engage on discussions of how to boost the local economy, create job opportunities, and enhance the tourist experience by fostering collaboration between private sector and the government.

Mayor Xaba delivering his keynote at the breakfast. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Mayor Xaba noted that it was fitting that this engagement took place during Tourism Month, a period dedicated to highlighting the tourism sector’s vital role in the economy of South Africa.

‘’The engagement, themed: ‘Collectively taking Durban tourism to greater heights,’ is a call for us all to strengthen the partnerships that exist between government and the private sector, with the ultimate goal of unlocking growth opportunities within our tourism ecosystem,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

Stakeholders were assured by Mayor Xaba that the City leadership remains committed to working collaboratively with the sector to develop a comprehensive roadmap that promotes a tourism industry capable of creating jobs, empowering communities, and benefiting residents.

The eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele also made some major announcements, including:

Tourist Safety Tech Boost – This is a new mobile app that will soon connect and activate security establishments within a 500-metre radius, providing tourists with peace of mind during their Durban visit.

Sports Tourism Drive – The City is in talks with COSAFA Games and the American Homecoming Programme to host activities during an entire month of the tournament, positioning Durban as a premier sports tourism hub.

Expanding Connectivity – Durban is looking at plans for a second airport on the South Coast, aiming to significantly improve access and foster regional tourism growth.

Durban has also launched South Africa’s first dedicated Coastal and Tourism Policing Unit, responsible for the patrolling of 100 km of coastline. This pioneering initiative forms part of a broader safety strategy to ensure residents and visitors enjoy safe beaches. The goal is to sustain and strengthen this unit, setting a national benchmark for beach and tourism safety.

‘’International arrivals increased to 186 000 between January and May this year, while domestic tourists rose to 2.8 million, compared to the same period last year. These numbers reaffirm Durban’s status as a compelling destination for both domestic and international travellers, thanks to our unique blend of nature, culture and history,’’ said Mbhele.

He also highlighted successful collaborative projects that have already begun to shape Durban’s future, including the Beachwood Development, Sibaya Precinct, and Oceans South Residential Tower, which hold immense potential to attract visitors and investments.

‘’The regeneration of Durban’s Inner City is gaining momentum with 47 of 120 derelict buildings already addressed,’’ added Mbhele.

Stakeholders also applauded the efforts of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG), established in April 2024. The PeWG’s mission is to tackle critical challenges faced by the Municipality.

‘’It’s about working together to promote Durban as a destination of choice and to develop it sustainably,’’ said Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Themo Ntuli.

Mbhele also urged stakeholders to participate in the upcoming reSURGEnce Conference, scheduled to take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, from 20 to 24 September 2025. He noted that tourism discussions will be central to the event, which will host over 150 delegates from various countries, including key participants from the United States.

Samantha Croft, Chairperson of the Tourism Committee Group for the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Operations Director for the KwaZulu-Natal Region of the Southern Sun hotel group, said the engagement with the Mayor was highly informative, it provided a platform for trade to engage directly with the City.