Khuluma Nathi Chatbot launched

 

Khuluma Nathi Chatbot launched

ETHEKWINI Municipality is calling on residents to register on the new e-participation chatbot on Whatsapp, Khuluma Nathi/Let’s Engage, to easily engage on the City’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP). Council approved that the Draft IDP be released for public consultation on 31 March. This strategic document will be open for public comment together with the draft budget. The Khuluma Nathi/Let’s Engage platform includes information on the IDP, details the different plans and priorities, and annexures. It allows the public to choose the plan they wish to comment on and the language they wish to engage in. The chatbot allows for English and Isizulu to cater to residents in the region. Bongumusa Zondo, Chief Strategy Officer, said the chatbot is part of local government’s aim to enhance participatory governance through digital transformation. “This process began post COVID-19. The Office of More than 20 G20 international countries gathered at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre for a G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group meeting where they discussed disaster risk solutions while reinforcing the need for a united global response to shared challenges. Strategic Management with the support of the Human Sciences Research Council developed the WhatsApp chat bot to improve community engagement on the IDP. Register to receive updates, information and comment on the IDP on 060 225 9959. The public should note that this platform is solely for engagement on the IDP and not for other complaints and enquiries. The public can be assured that personal information will be protected under the eThekwini Municipality Privacy Policy.

Major system upgrade for water call centre

 

SIPHELELE BUTHELEZI

Plans to improve water supply and the status of water tankers in the City were outlined to the Executive Committee at a meeting on 15 April. Planned upgrades to the Water and Sanitation Contact Centre were also discussed. 

TO ENSURE a seamless customer experience and improved service delivery, the City’s Water and Sanitation Contact Centre will undergo a major revamp which will include the replacement of the contact centre system to upgrade and modernise it to deal with multiple challenges. The upgrade, which includes the integration of a WhatsApp channel with a faults man, will enable auto logging of faults and will provide updated feedback to customers. The upgrade will be implemented in the new financial year, 2025/26. Acting Deputy City Manager for Trading Services Ednick Msweli provided a report during the Executive Committee meeting on 15 April. The approved report will proceed to Full Council for final endorsement. It was explained that the delay in modernising the systems at the contact centre was due to budget constraints. Calls and quality issues are currently being dealt with as an operational item with the recent installation of the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to deal with congestion issue. The report also highlighted calls and WhatsApp chat volumes with more than 80 000 calls received and 38 822 chats in March. Msweli said once upgrades are implemented, the aim is for the contact centre to answer calls within 20 seconds or 30 seconds at a maximum. In addition, the City will continue to explore a diversity of reporting channels to reduce demand on the calling option. The report further provided an update on the status of water supply across the City and the utilisation of water tankers. Water supply in the inner west, outer west and south regions is sitting at 90 percent with the north and central regions at 85 percent. The eThekwini Water and Sanitation Unit recognises that there are areas that continuously experience water outages and intermittent supply due to limited bulk water supply and system constraints. These areas are serviced with water tankers to provide relief. This includes Council owned tankers and additional hired tankers, as and when required. The City has added 98 water tankers to its fleet which was procured in December last year and delivered in phases. This brings the total number of Council owned tankers to 292. The tankers operate in two shifts from 6am to 2:30pm with the afternoon shift from 2pm to 10.30pm. It was also clarified that not all tankers are operational everyday due to break downs, repairs, or drivers being on leave. The City will continue to increase the fleet of Council-owned tankers.

Top 5 Highlights from Africa's Travel Indaba 2025

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 16, 2025

Africa’s Travel Indaba has just wrapped up in Durban and there have been some wonderful highlights during the show.

Here are just some of them:

BONDay (Business Opportunity Networking Day)

The day which was hosted by South African Tourism set the tone for the week ahead and was filled with strategic dialogue, future-forward thinking, and lots of networking.

‘’BONDay is where Africa’s tourism thinkers meet its doers. It’s a place to connect, collaborate and co-create the future of tourism on our continent,’’ said Darryl Erasmus Chief Operations Officer at South African Tourism.

Opening Day

Bell ringing ceremony for the official opening of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: South African Tourism. 

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, the premier travel and tourism trade show on the African continent, opened on Wednesday, 14^th May 2025 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Under the theme ‘’Unlimited Africa’’, the event was officially opened by South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile and South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

Over 1,300 exhibitors from 27 African nations, including for the first time participants from Chad, St Helena, and Burkina Faso met with more than 1,200 international buyers from 55 source markets at the event in Durban.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered the opening address and he was joined on stage by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille; Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Cyril Xaba; KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverend Musa Zondi; and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Arthur Thamsanqa Ntuli.

‘’This is an Africa where intra-continental trade, investment, and tourism are no longer mere aspirations but rather everyday realities. Tourism is a significant economic engine, a catalyst for social change, and a cornerstone of inclusive growth. Let us demonstrate to the world that Africa is ready for business. With these words, I would like to officially declare the Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 open!’’

The Deputy President also highlighted that travel and tourism contributed 6.8% to Africa’s GDP in 2023, with projections indicating a rise to 10.4% by 2030. He also noted that South Africa’s G20 Presidency, with over 200 related meetings hosted, is a prime opportunity to spotlight African perspectives on global economic and development issues.

‘’Africa’s Travel Indaba is a catalyst for inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development, not only in South Africa but throughout Africa. Tourism remains a powerful economic driver,’’ said South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

The welcoming ceremony finished with the traditional ringing of the bell, a symbolic gesture that resonated through the halls of the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC, officially marking the start of business and three days of intensive networking, deal-making, and showcasing the very best of ‘’Unlimited Africa’’.

Events

Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 African Tourism Ministers' Roundtable. | Photo: South African Tourism.

Tourism leaders convened for the much anticipated African Ministers’ Roundtable at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025. This event was hosted by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, the panel featured a distinguished lineup including Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel, Angola’s Minister of Tourism; Sikhumbuzo Dlamini, Eswatini’s Minister Tinkhundla Administration and Development; Fredson Bacar, Mozambique’s Secretary of State of Tourism; and Rodney Sikumba, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism.

The spirit of collaboration was a common theme at the roundtable. ‘’We are not here to compete, we are here to collaborate,’’ remarked Minister Sikhumbuzo Dlamini of Eswatini.

There was a call for a united Africa.

‘’As African tourism ministers, we have a singular resolve to work as a team, there must be cohesion and strength in numbers. We’ve also expanded Zambia’s visa-free access from 42 to 167 countries and believe it’s time to open the skies so people can travel more freely across the continent,’’ noted Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba.

Fredson Bacar, Mozambique’s Secretary of State for Tourism, reinforced the importance of regional partnerships, citing the ZIMOZA Transfrontier Park, a collaboration between Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Angola’s Minister of Tourism, Márcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel called for the implementation of long discussed programmes like the open skies policy and free visa policies.

Minister de Lille confirmed that pressure is being applied through the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement to open the skies.

Africa’s Travel Indaba proved that it is more than just a trade show; it is an incubator of ideas, crucial for partnerships and a powerful symbol of Africa’s commitment to shaping its own tomorrow, through connections today.

Elsewhere at Africa’s Travel Indaba the eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba welcomed Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Durban-KZN Business Breakfast.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba delivering a keynote at the Durban-KZN Business Breakfast at Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: Supplied. 

The breakfast was a pivotal engagement to connect, reflect and chart the course forward with key stakeholders.

‘’This gathering is far more than a mere discussion forum – it serves as the driving force behind Africa’s tourism aspirations. It is a dynamic continental platform that stimulates investment, facilitates trade opportunities, and highlights the rich diversity and excellence of African destinations. This year we seek to position our city not just as a destination – but as a dynamic, investable ecosystem where culture, commerce, and community converge,’’ said eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Speed Marketing

Africa’s Travel Indaba also provides a wonderful platform for tourism products to market their business to a host of buyers at various Speed Marketing sessions which are held over 3 days. The product representative had 4 minutes to pitch their business before a loud noise signalled for them to leave the stage.

At Africa's Travel Indaba there was plenty of music to entertain delegates. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Products included St Francis Tourism which has a Calamari festival, uShaka Marine World Theme Park which has a Village Walk shopping centre, Aquarium and Wet n’ Wild with a DJ. Other highlights included Timamoon Lodge which features 7 magnificent villas, a hidden gem;  Goldfields Game Ranch have guides than can speak Mandarin to cater for Chinese tourists.

The Stats

The wrap-up media conference at the end of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025. | Photo: South African Tourism.

At the wrap-up media conference at the end of Africa’s Travel Indaba, Thembisile Sehlolo, Chief Marketing Officer of South African Tourism, together with Sibusiso Gumbi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority; Winile Mntungwa, Deputy Head of Durban Tourism and Sandile Makhanya, Acting Marketing & Communications Executive of Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC), addressed the media.

‘’We are exceptionally proud to have once again delivered the premier showcase of the African continent’s diverse tourism products and experiences,’’ said Sehlolo.

Mntungwa said:  ‘’The economic ripple effect was felt far beyond the city centre, benefitting township and rural tourism enterprises – both formal & informal.’’

‘’I am pleased to say that KwaZulu-Natal has hosted another very successful Africa’s Travel Indaba with a record number of delegates, international buyers and airlines attending this year,’’ noted Gumbi.

The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority also signed MOUs with eSwatini Tourism and Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier conservation Area Joint Marketing Agreement.

Current figures (still to be audited) indicate that Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 hosted more than 9,990 attendees, marking an impressive 7.7% increase compared to 9,280 delegates that attended in 2024 with over 24 500 quality meetings held. The event attracted 1,348 exhibitors and 1037 buyers, with both exhibitors and international buyer numbers being the highest recorded in the past four years. A total of 27 African countries participated, including newcomers Chad, St Helena and Burkina Faso.

Makhanya at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre noted that ‘’Africa’s Travel Indaba is undeniably our premier event. As the ICC, we are deeply committed to ensuring that this trade event showcases Africa to the world and contributes significantly and sustainably to our local economy.’’

For more information visit: www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

Blue Lagoon Traders' Facility Shines Light On Durban's Coastal Market

 

Blue Lagoon Traders' Facility Shines Light On Durban's Coastal Market

NONDUDUZO NGCONGO 

Work to build the Blue Lagoon Traders Facility is well underway. The project is designed to provide a clean, well-organised, and customer-friendly environment for local vendors. Located at 30 Road Stiebel across from the Green Corridor on the popular Durban Beachfront Promenade, the facility aims to formalise and coordinate informal trading activities in the area.

Construction of the Blue Lagoon Traders Facility, set for completion by June, is underway. The facility once completed aims to uplift Durban's informal economy. Picture: Saneli Mthalane. 

Valued at R12 million, the facility is expected to be completed in June. Once finished, it will provide designated trading spaces for 35 local vendors, offering both perishable and dry goods. This development is particularly important as the current informal structures along the beachfront have faced some criticism for not fully meeting standards, which affects the area's overall visual appeal. The new facility promises to improve the aesthetic and operational standards, enhancing the beachfront experience for visitors while offering better access to local products.

The Blue Lagoon facility features a variety of amenities, including stalls with washing basins and hedge roller doors, round-the-clock security, and a cleaning service to maintain cleanliness.

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said: “This is just one of many interventions by eThekwini Municipality to support the informal sector. We recognise the vital role informal trading plays in economic growth, job creation, and community resilience. Our ongoing investments reflect this commitment to uplifting informal traders.”

Councillor Ntuli highlighted that the Blue Lagoon Traders Facility is part of the Municipality’s broader strategy to address the challenges faced by informal businesses, ensuring that the City creates a conducive environment for them. “We further continue to partner with various stakeholders to tackle issues such as access to finance, technology, and business development services. With an estimated 55 000 street vendors operating across the Municipality, informal trade contributes significantly to Durban’s economy, providing livelihoods and promoting local entrepreneurship.”

In addition to the Blue Lagoon project, the City continues to roll out various initiatives aimed at improving the working environment for informal traders, recognising their critical contribution to the region’s economic vitality.

Almost Time for Africa's Travel Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | May 6, 2025

The media launch for the much anticipated Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 was recently held at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. This event was led by the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, senior representatives from the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and Tourism Authority, South African Tourism and key stakeholders.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille speaking at the media launch for Africa's Travel Indaba 2025.  Photo: Fiona Wainwright. 

The theme for Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 is ‘’Unlimited Africa,’’ which is a bold declaration of the continent’s spirit and ambition. Minister de Lille delivered her keynote describing Indaba as: ‘’Not just a trade show – it is a platform to reshape narratives, forge powerful connections, and unlock shared value across our continent.’’

Africa’s Travel Indaba is the perfect place for buyers where they can discover and source a wide range of African tourism products and experiences. There will be 297 unique offerings, 1 200 exhibitors from across 26 African countries and 908 vetted international buyers representing 55 global markets, this event is ideal for networking opportunities and meetings for B2B. Buyers gain access to curated, diverse, authentic and emerging travel products for their clients.

The exhibitors benefit from top exposure to global tourism decision-makers. The exhibition floor is sold-out and the Return on Investment (ROI) is high for launching new products, forming strategic partnerships and exploring new markets.

At Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 there were over 24,000 business meetings that turned into deals and revenue. The platform also empowers SMMEs through mentorship, visibility and access to global buyers.

The travel and trade show is also a rich tapestry for media where they can find plenty of content for articles around travel, tourism and interview key stakeholders.

The economic impact of Indaba in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal is huge:

R226 million in direct economic activity generated in Durban in 2024, with an additional R333 million across the KZN province. More than 1 000 jobs created through the event. Empowerment of 120 tourism SMMEs to engage global buyers and media made possible through funding from Department of Tourism’s Market Access Support Programme.

‘’We are even more excited about this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba as it comes soon after we launched our new Global Campaign: ‘South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!’ – a celebration of the country’s boundless energy, rich culture and extraordinary experiences,’’ said Minister de Lille at the media launch.

‘’After hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) for more than 30 years, we are delighted to be the host province for ATI 2025. We remain hopeful to host the event for the next few decades and make KwaZulu-Natal Africa’s Travel Indaba’s permanent home,’’ noted KZN Tourism and Film Authority, Board Chairperson Dr Sibusiso Ndebele.

Highlights to look out for at ATI 2025 include:

BONDay (Business Opportunity Networking Day)

AI & Tech-Focused Sessions

Cross-Border Tourism Collaboration Forums

12 Independent Airlines & an Airline Pavilion.

‘’Durban stands ready to showcase our hospitality and commitment to excellence in the global tourism sector. Together, let us make this event a momentous occasion that reflects our pride and potential,’’ said Councillor Nkosenhle Madlala, Chairperson of Governance and Human Capital in the eThekwini Metro.

As the G20 Summit is being hosted in South Africa, ATI sets the stage for positioning the continent as a leading player in global tourism dialogue and hosting big events.

‘’Tourism is not a side act in our economic story – it is centre stage. We invite all delegates to come experience the might of the African continent’s tourism sector while enjoying South Africa’s hospitality in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa awaits - Come find your joy,’’ concluded Minister de Lille.