Highlights from Africa Maritime Investment Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 18, 2024

The first Africa Maritime Investment Indaba was hosted by eThekwini Municipality and organised by the Africa Oceans Council in Durban recently over three days.

Mr Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa spoke at the event. | Photo: Fred Felton

The event from 6 – 8 November allowed delegates to share knowledge and showed the delegates Africa’s growing capabilities in maritime manufacturing, conserving the environment and education within the maritime sector.

The Indaba was held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre and various investment projects were discussed that could benefit from an estimated $3 trillion dollar economy with the potential for 800 000 jobs to be created at over 100 ports across Africa.

This event solidified the commitment of Durban to see itself as a smart port city region and a key player in Africa’s Blue Economy. National and global delegates gathered together to discuss investment in Africa’s booming maritime sector.

‘’We see this sector as pivotal for addressing the skills shortage, empowering coastal communities, and positioning Durban as a premier maritime hub,’’ said eThekwini Deputy Mayor Councillor Zandile Myeni.

Some of the key themes discussed at the Indaba included maritime trade finance, the development of energy offshore, aquaculture and conserving the ocean.

One of the eThekwini Municipality stands at Africa Maritime Investment Indaba. | Photo: Fred Felton

The discussions were in line with the eThekwini Inner City Regeneration Plan, which reinforced the vision of the Municipality to use the Blue Economy for creating jobs, building infrastructure and development.

A number of high-profile speakers guided the conversations during the themed conference sessions of the event.

The indaba also highlighted some key points to do with maritime trade in Africa. Around R780 billion bulk minerals are exported from South Africa.

‘’What are we doing to transport passengers? How long does it take us to get passengers to the battlefield sites? We’re investing in cruise terminals, we’re investing in infrastructure. Tourist attractions need to be near the ship terminals. We need to do more destination marketing. Africa is a place to come to,’’ noted Mr Ross Volk, Managing Director, MSC Cruises South Africa.

The delegates were also informed of how marine trade is doing in SADC countries.

‘’Botswana, Namibia and South Africa are high-income countries. Trade makes countries richer. Efficient ports with good connectivity are essential,’’ said Mr Jannie Roux of Bidvest South Africa.

There are also huge opportunities in the tourism sector which includes Eco-Tourism, Diving-Tourism and Archaeological-Tourism.

At the end of the Indaba it was very clear that Durban remains confident in its commitment to creating a strong and sustainable Blue Economy.

 

Upgrade of Hazelmere Dam commissioned

The Department of Water and Sanitation has completed a project to raise the Hazelmere Dam wall by seven metres to increase capacity of storage to augment the water supply to areas in the North Coast.  Picture: THULI DLAMINI 

SIPHELELE BUTHELEZI

WATER and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, on 25 October commissioned the newly upgraded Hazelmere Dam. The commissioning of the dam comes after the Department of Water and Sanitation completed a project to raise the dam wall by seven metres to increase capacity of storage as well as augment water supply to areas such as Verulam, Groutville, Blythedale, and Ballito.

Minister Majodina said the North Coast has experienced rapid growth in recent years, especially in the housing sector which resulted in an increased demand for potable water. “The Department of Water and Sanitation upgraded the Hazelmere Dam wall to meet the needs of the increasing population in the North Coast as it is our role to ensure bulk water supply. The concerned municipalities should now roll up their sleeves to ensure that water is directed to households,” said Minister Majodina.

The project scope of the work entailed the raising of the dam wall from 86 metres to 93 meters. This included the construction of retrofitting a Piano Key Weir (PKW) onto an existing dam spillway structure, the installation of 83 rock anchors, as well as foundation grouting and other minor related works.

Minister Majodina expressed that the Hazelmere Dam forms part of the country’s state-of-the-art dams. “The Hazelmere Dam can now be measured against world-class standards due the type of spillway selection, technology, and innovation used in implementing the project,” she said.

The dam has an uncontrolled PKW spillway, this was done to ensure that the dam wall withstands extreme concentration of floods of between six and eight hours for the dam catchment area.

Some of the employed technologies undertaken to upgrade the dam wall included the world’s highest PKW, the world’s largest anchors were installed to improve stability of the concrete gravity dam wall structure, and the largest capacity post-tensioning stressing jacks were deployed during construction. Some of the technologies employed included the use of innovative data management software for real-time monitoring of anchor performance, and 3D digital crack meters.

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City commissions boreholes in areas struggling with stable water supply

There was ululation when officials from the eThekwini Water and Sanitation Unit and Ward Councillor Fakazi Mdletshe unveiled a new borehole in Ward 60, in the Mhlasini area. | Picture: THULI DLAMINI

SIPHELELE BUTHELEZI

The Municipality commissioned five boreholes recently in areas experiencing water supply challenges.

The boreholes were commissioned in Ward 60, Mhlasini area 2 in Verulam, Ward 100 in uMlazi V-Section and the Nwabi area, and Ward 98 in Nkwali Mahagana and Mgobhozini.

These communities will no longer rely on the tankers for their water supply as the boreholes are in the communities as part of interim relief.

Ward 60 Councillor Fakazi Mdletshe expressed gratitude and said the borehole will go a long way in mitigating the water supply challenge in the area.

“We appreciate having a borehole in the Mhlasini area because relying on water tankers is not sustainable as these trucks do not come to the area every day. The Mhlasini area has grown rapidly with many households and residents. This resulted to the water bulk line not having capacity to meet the growing demand. There is not enough pressure to push water to this area; however, this is being attended to through infrastructure upgrade,” said Councillor Fakazi.

The borehole produces 2 000 litres a day and can run up to 20 hours a day. Water produced from the borehole has been tested and complies with the South African National Standard 241 for drinking water requirements.  

Residents are discouraged from washing their cars, clothes, and connecting hosepipes to and from the borehole taps to their household static tanks.

“I urge residents to look after this borehole as it has been installed for their benefit. I hope I will not hear any reports of the theft of taps and other components as this will be a setback for residents who rely on this water. Also, the water must be shared equitably,” he said.

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MSC Euribia Visits Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 10, 2024

The MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises’ flagship made a technical stop in Durban at the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal on the 6^th November 2024. There was also a Crest Exchange Ceremony as this was the first time the ship visited Durban.

MSC Euribia | Photo: Supplied.

This ship is one of the largest to berth at a South African port and is also one of the most technologically advanced and iconic ships in the MSC Cruises’ fleet.

This is MSC Cruises’ fifth Meraviglia class ship and is powered by liquid natural gas (LNG). The ship came into service in 2023.

Crest Exchange Ceremony. | Photo: Fred Felton.

‘’We are delighted to welcome MSC Euribia for her first stop in South Africa. The R300 million Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in Durban is only one of two ports in South Africa equipped to accommodate such a large vessel, making the terminal perfect for this,’’ said Ross Volk, Managing Director of MSC Cruises South Africa.

The MSC Euribia is the 2nd ship in the MSC Cruises fleet to be powered by LNG, which is more environmentally friendly and reduces emissions of greenhouse gasses by 20%. The fuel offers immediate benefits to the local port community compared to conventional maritime fuels by reducing local air emissions (99% less sulphur oxides (SOx), 99% particulate emissions and up to 85% less nitrogen oxides (NOx).

This ship can accommodate 6 334 passengers and has 2 400 cabins, the ship has some amazing features which include an almost 100-metre LED screen running along the ceiling of the central indoor promenade – the longest and most spectacular LED dome at sea which has to be seen to be believed. It is literally jaw dropping.

That 100-metre LED screen. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

The MSC Euribia offers passengers a choice of 10 dining venues, 21 bars, five pools that accommodate over 1 000 guests, and one of the biggest waterparks at sea. The ship also has a theatre, gym and a Spa which features loads of new experiences.

Tiramisu. Sweet treats you can get on board. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

The vessel is also home to the MSC Yacht Club for the ultimate luxury experience which includes privacy and a 24-hour butler service.

MSC Cruises remains committed to the continued growth of the cruising industry in South Africa and the potential of the industry to making a positive impact to the local economy and the SA economy.

‘’This marks the official start of the local cruise season and as MSC Cruises we look forward to welcoming avid cruises and those new to cruising on board, throughout the summer. MSC Musica, the vessel that will service South Africa for the local season, will kick off her time on local waters on the 22^nd of November 2024,’’ noted Ross Volk.

Tour the MSC Euribia here:  

Take a Southern Sun Break in Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 5, 2024

Southern Sun has partnered with Durban Tourism as it once again cements a long-term investment in the City through a summer holiday activation aimed at bringing more tourists back to Durban and making the city South Africa’s top holiday attraction.

Southern Sun and Durban Tourism have partnered to promote Durban. | Photo: Supplied. 

Southern Sun and Durban Tourism are clearly dedicated to promoting South Africa’s beloved coastal hotspot, they are also aiming to rekindle excitement in this region which is full of diversity and must see destinations. There are convenient flights by South African Airways (SAA) from all the major cities in SA to Durban’s King Shaka International Airport which makes it very easy for tourists to reach the city’s well known attractions and beaches.

Durban has many beautiful beaches, a pulsing energy, plenty of historical sights, family-friendly things to do and a wide variety of accommodation within Durban. There is so much to offer in the City for local and international travellers.

The chandelier at the reception of The Edward. | Photo: Fred Felton

There are a wide variety of Southern Sun hotels in Durban so you have plenty of options. Along the Golden Mile some of their best hotels include The Edward which has that old world charm and is filled with pictures of Durban a long time ago. The hotel features a variety of room offerings and the presidential suite will certainly take your breath away. The hotel features sumptuous meal offerings from any type of Durban Curry to meat, fish and chicken dishes, desserts to die for and delicious drinks to cool you down after your beach swim.

A hotel room at the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Further down the Golden Mile you will find the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani where you have a wide variety of options of where you would like to stay. There are various options with beautiful sea views that show you all that Durban has to offer. This hotel also features many conference options for business travellers and for those that like to party the Sky Venue at the Maharani, features spectacular views.

The Grill Jichana serves Beef Fillet with pepper sauce along with shoestring fries, comes with onion rings and vegetables. | Photo: Fred Felton

For a tasty dinner try The Grill Jichana which is in the Elangeni. The Beef Fillet and the Lamb Shank are highly recommended. When you wake up in the morning, try out Vigour &Verve in the Maharani for a delicious breakfast. Their omelette is highly recommended. Here you can find any type of breakfast under the sun from fresh fruit to yogurts, eggs and bacon, sausages, muffins, pastries and so much more. There is of course plenty of fresh juices and most importantly coffee and cappuccino to get you ready for your big day out.

uShaka Marine World. | Photo: Fred Felton.

Dick King Statue. | Photo: Fred Felton

Segway Rides. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

If you prefer the finer things in life head further north to uMhlanga Rocks and there you will find the Beverly Hills where you can find fine dining, high teas, spectacular sea views and easy access to the uMhlanga Rocks promenade where you can walk each morning or afternoon. This hotel features the utmost luxury, hospitality and exceptional service. Here you can find complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour in-room dining service, gym, a spa and more. The hotel is also the perfect spot for meetings and events. For dining try The Sugar Club and for cocktails head to Elements Café Bar. You can also pop by their Lounge & Vista Terrace for tea & coffee, the Vista Terrace is also perfect for dolphin spotting.

Beverly Hills Balcony Views. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

‘’Southern Sun’s legacy in the Durban region spans over five decades, and it’s a heritage we hold with pride. We remain fully committed to the growth and success of this beautiful region,’’ said Samantha Croft, Southern Sun’s Durban Region Operations Director.

Roasted Butternut and Feta Quiche at Beverly Hills. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Start packing your bags for your next trip to Durban this summer, with Southern Sun’s SunBreaks Summer offer. You can enjoy relaxing on the beach, explore Durban and have some quality time with the family this December or January.

If you are looking for places to explore in Durban try out uShaka Marine World for a snorkelling experience that will take your breath away or why not try some Shark Cage Diving if you dare. They also have fun slides and an Aquarium. You can also book a Segway Ride at Moses Mabhida Stadium and enjoy scenic views of the beachfront.  Other options include the Rickshaw bus which takes you on an informative bus tour around Durban and you can even take a Rickshaw ride on the beachfront.  

‘’Our long-standing partnership with Southern Sun is built on a shared goal – promoting Durban as South Africa’s top holiday destination,’’ noted Winile Mntungwa, Deputy Head of Durban Tourism.

Beverly Hills Cappuccino. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

This partnership between Southern Sun and Durban Tourism underscores not only the importance of collaboration in boosting local tourism but also the commitment to providing visitors, with unforgettable experiences in Durban. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Durban promises to deliver an enriching holiday experience.

For more information visit: https://www.southernsun.com and https://visitdurban.travel

Southern Sun Social Media

Instagram @southernsunhotels

X: @SouthernSunGrp

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/SouthernSunHotels/

Durban Tourism

Instagram - @dbntourism

X - @dbntourism

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DBNTourism

SAA Social Media

Instagram - @flysaa

X - @flysaa

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/FlySAA

EThekwini Presents South Regional Durban Business Fair

 

EThekwini Municipality encourages communities to support local businesses at the South Regional Durban Business Fair (DBF) from October 24 to 27 at KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre in uMlazi.

Themed “Regional Fairs - Back to Promoting Township Businesses and Economies,” this event is the first of several decentralised DBF programme scheduled throughout the 2024/25 financial year.

Approximately 130 ward-based businesses from various sectors will showcase their products and services during the three-day exhibition, engaging with thousands of potential buyers.

In addition to the exhibition, the South Regional DBF features several empowerment activities, including a two-day Business Indaba. On October 24, the Co-operative Development Indaba will host industry experts discussing how cooperatives can expand and diversify their offerings for local and international markets. Notable speakers include representatives from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the German Cooperative and Raiffeisen Confederation, and the Small Enterprise Development Agency, among others.

On October 25, the Contractor Development Indaba will feature leading organizations, financial institutions, and social entrepreneur DJ Sbu Leope. Representatives from Property Point, the National Builders Registration Council, and Ithala Bank will share insights and uncover growth opportunities.

On October 26, the Enterprise and Supplier Development Regional Seminar will enhance support for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises by unlocking public and private procurement opportunities and access to funding.

The Fair will also showcase "Flavours of Durban," where local chefs, including renowned Nompumelo ‘Mprudie’ Nkosi, will demonstrate their culinary skills.

From October 25 to 27, attendees can gain valuable knowledge from the “Business of Filmmaking” panel featuring veteran actress Baby Cele and industry producers. Young minds will thrive in the Kiddiepreneur corner with YouTuber Ibanathi Mpungose and various entrepreneurial demonstrations.

Additionally, the International Pavilion will provide insights into global relations, featuring delegates from Junior Chamber International and the Pan African Chamber of Commerce, who will announce the launch of their Durban branch.

Fashion showcases and access to key municipal service departments will also be included.

Entry is free. For inquiries, call 031 266 9938.

Water curtailment implemented in the city

 

Water curtailment 

implemented in the city

UMNGENI-UTHUKELA WATER BOARD (UUW) will implement water curtailment throughout eThekwini Municipality effective from Thursday, 10 October. 

The announcement was made jointly by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba and uMngeni-uThukela Water Board. 

The curtailment is being implemented at the directive of the Department of Water and Sanitations (DWS) who issued a notice to UUW to reduce the volume of water abstracted from the Mgeni system to their licenced volumes of 470 million m3/

annum. 

This will mean a reduction on the current sales and abstraction volume of 8.4 

percent. 

Mayor Xaba said the City said the curtailment is aimed to enable continued water availability, including during periods of below-average rainfall. 

''The risk of not enforcing the abstraction limit is that, should a drought occur, there would not be sufficient water in the system for uMngeni-uThukela Water to continue providing the eThekwini Municipality with a reliable water supply,'' he said. 

The water curtailment is not water shedding where there is a schedule for water cuts at certain times.

However, the purpose of the water curtailment is to avoid water shedding by bringing down the total volume used in a controlled manner.

The curtailment will be implemented for a period of 12 months. 

''We urge residents to use water sparingly to assist in reducing the high consumption. As we have indicated in the previous media briefings, the demand for water in eThekwini far outstrips supply and we continue to plead with all stakeholders both our residential and business customers to work with us to address this challenge,'' he said. 

Some of the contributing factors to the high-water usage include rapid urbanisation, aging infrastructure which causes water leaks and illegal connections. 

In ensuring that residents are not adversely affected, the city will be implementing the following interventions:

• Installation of restrictors in water metres to all consumers
• Pressure reduction in the reticulation network
• Metering all unmetered consumers
• Improve turnaround time in repairing leaks and pipe bursts through deployment of ward-based plumbers 
• Community education in water conservation 
• Disconnection of illegal connections 

The average water consumption in eThekwini is very high as it is between 270 and 298 litres per capita (person), per day (l/c/d) compared to the international average of 173 l/c/d. 

During this process, the City's teams will be monitoring the system and manage excessive demand. 

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Application to host events during the festive season 

THE Municipality's Festive Season Management Committee (FESMAC) wishes to inform all event organisers, companies, and individuals who want to hold events/activities in the City during the festive season that the cut-off date for applications is Friday, 1 November at 16h00. 

The festive season period is from 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025. 

The applications are for events to be hosted in Durban Central, Southern, Western, and the Northern Regions.

The public is advised that no stage performances will be permitted on the coastal areas on these dates 16, 25, 26 and 31 December 2024, as well as 1 to 3 January 2025. 

Application forms to stage an event/programme must be obtained from and returned to the Events Management Office, The Platform, Lion Match Complex, Entrance No 1, 892 uMgeni Road, Durban, 4001 or emailed to Archel.Somaroo@durban.gov.za 

Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee that permission will be granted. 

The applicant will be notified whether the application has been successful or not. 

The Municipality reserves the right to cancel an event should it deem the event to be non-compliant.

For more information contact 031 311 4720. 

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Elf: The Musical JR Coming to Durban ICC

 

By Fred Felton | Oct 12, 2024

The much acclaimed show Elf: The Musical JR will be making its debut at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) from 16^th – 29^th December 2024.

The Durban ICC is well known for bringing the best entertainment to Durban and this show is certain to attract many bookings for this pantomime.

Elf: The Musical JR is a tale guaranteed to warm your heart. The show captures the spirit of Christmas through the adventures of Buddy. As Buddy tries to find his family in the busy city you can expect themes of love, hope and resilience during the show.

John Aritho, Durban ICC's Chief Operating Officer at the media launch for Elf: The Musical JR. | Photo: Fred Felton 

This musical is the perfect show to see during December with your whole family. You can expect a show filled with laughter, joy and the magic of the holiday season.

The Durban ICC has collaborated with The Young Performers Project and Warner Bros to bring Elf: The Musical JR to the stage. You can expect to see stunning visuals, captivating music, and an emotionally resonant story for everyone.

‘’We are thrilled to be working with The Young Performers Project to bring Elf: The Musical JR to South Africa for the first time,’’ said John Aritho Durban ICC’s Chief Operating Officer.

Those that see the show can expect a set design that brings the North Pole to life; you can also expect a talented cast and crew that will give you many a laugh and cheer.

Actor and Comedian Aaron Mcllroy had the audience in stitches at the launch. | Photo: Fred Felton

Elf is the perfect show for audiences of all ages.

Don’t miss out on the extraordinary celebration of storytelling and artistry.

Get your tickets at www.webticket.co.za