The 2026 East Coast Radio House and Garden Show Opens June 27

 

By Fred Felton | June 1, 2026

KZN’s favourite lifestyle event is getting ready to welcome visitors to the 2026 edition on 27 June until 5 July at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

Plenty to see and do at the event this year. | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’The theme this year is Dream, Create and Live,’’ said the Show’s new director Lara Bezuidenhout.

Look out for the latest international trends, new products, local gems and loads of entertainment.

This event is ideal for the family and for school holidays. Keep an eye out for a massive play area at the show where Peter Pan and Tinkerbell will be in Neverland. You might even bump into Dolly with her Trolley, part AI, part human.

There will also be plenty to eat and drink, pop by the Gin Garden, with live music, ice-cream vendors and Sophie’s Café for sweet treats. Delicious food will be on offer from Lawmans for Mexican, Ole Smoki, and tasty burgers from Filthy Moustache.

If you want to learn new recipes try the Hirsch Test Kitchen or get some beauty tips at Edgars’ House of Red.

There’s R100 000 worth of premium camping gear, great escapes and outdoor kit, all from Khakibush magazine.

You can also meet Mario and Luigi at the Hirsch’s Nintendo Activation Area. If you score the fastest lap time on the Mario Kart game, a Nintendo console or merchandise goodies valued at R12,500 could be yours.

Look out for the iconic Porsche 911 display at Hirsch’s and you can also win Hirsch’s big prizes from Porsche and Smeg.

If you like to braai look out The BraaiBoss Challenge, the search for SA’s ultimate Braai Boss.

Secure parking at Centrum opposite DEC/Workshop/ICC.

Tickets available at Quicket.

The City Celebrated a Successful Africa's Travel Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | May 19, 2026

The City welcomed the successful hosting of Africa’s Travel Indaba which finished on 14^th May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

As the Indaba concluded, the City also launched the 5th Durban Tourism Business Awards. | Photo: Supplied. 

Africa’s Travel Indaba was hosted in partnership with South African Tourism and key industry stakeholders and has once again reaffirmed Durban’s status as a leading tourism and events destination in Africa.

Durban was filled with thousands of delegates, exhibitors, buyers, media and tourism leaders from across the world. They engaged in business discussions, forged partnerships, and showcased Africa’s many tourism offerings.

This event delivered significant economic  and tourism benefits for the City, with hotels, restaurants, transport operators, attractions, and local businesses all getting increased activity during the week.

Durban’s warm hospitality, world-class infrastructure, and vibrant tourism experiences were on full show as delegates explored Durban’s beaches, cultural attractions, township tourism offerings, adventure activities, and culinary experiences.

‘’The City has showcased its capability, hospitality, and readiness to welcome the world. We are encouraged by the positive feedback received from delegates and tourism stakeholders who experienced Durban during this important tourism showcase,’’ said eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

He also acknowledged the strong collaboration between government, tourism bodies, law enforcement agencies, the private sector, and communities in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for visitors during the event.

Africa’s Travel Indaba showcased the value of destination marketing, investment promotion, networking opportunities, and tourism business growth, while further strengthening Durban’s reputation as a gateway to the African continent.

At the closing of Africa’s Travel Indaba, Durban Tourism officially launched the 5^th Durban Tourism Business Awards, an initiative aimed at recognising and celebrating excellence in the tourism sector.

The awards ceremony will take place on 18 June at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

The City also extended its gratitude to all exhibitors, buyers, delegates, organisers, sponsors, tourism partners, volunteers, and residents that helped with the success of this event.

Durban is looking forward to continuing to build tourism momentum and leveraging the partnerships and opportunities created during Africa’s Travel Indaba to drive economic growth and the creation of jobs within the tourism sector.

Municipality intensifies its winter safety campaign to prevent fires

 

Municipality intensifies its winter safety campaign to prevent fires

SANE SHANDU

ETHEKWINI Municipality’s efforts to protect residents have intensified, with a renewed focus on preventing devastating fires before tragedy strikes this winter season.

As the cold weather sets in, more households turn to heaters, candles, paraffin stoves, and electric blankets to stay warm. While these bring warmth, they also increase the risk of fire, especially in densely populated communities and informal settlements where fires can spread rapidly.

Recognising this growing danger, the Municipality’s Fire Service Directorate has rolled out an expanded winter safety campaign, taking fire prevention directly to people. The campaign is actively reaching communities, schools, and local spaces to share practical safety tips and raise awareness.

Every year, lives are lost and families are left devastated due to fires that could have been prevented. Many of these incidents are caused by everyday actions such as unattended stoves, overloading plugs, or unsafe heating methods.

Director of the Fire Services Directorate Enock Mchunu said fire safety starts with awareness and shared responsibility. ‘’Most fires begin with small mistakes. When people understand the risks and take simple precautions, we can prevent disasters and save lives,’’ he said.

Fire safety teams are working on the ground, empowering communities with knowledge and tools to protect themselves and their loved ones. The aim is to build a culture of safety. ‘’We want to work with communities and schools to ensure they are empowered with skills and tools that safeguard their homes,’’ Mchunu said.

In case of a fire emergency, residents can call 031 361 0000.

Indigent Support Programme operational

 

Indigent Support Programme operational

ROMITA HANUMAN-PILLAY

THE City’s Indigent Support Programme is fully operational, and applications are currently being processed. The Indigent Support Programme exists to protect residents facing genuine financial hardship by providing low-income and impoverished households access to free basic municipal services.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba engaged with thousands of uMlazi residents at King Zwelithini Stadium recently and outlined social relief measures for communities. Photo: Supplied. 

This basket of services is provided for in the Indigent Policy and includes support for water, electricity, refuse removal, sanitation, and other basic services. The Municipality wishes to clarify that the recent transition of the Indigent Support Programme function to the Revenue Management Directorate forms part of a broader effort to improve efficiency, accountability, and integration of services.

While this transition has revealed historical backlogs and other related challenges, it has also created an opportunity to address these issues in a structured and sustainable manner. An internal review is currently underway to assess the full extent of outstanding and incomplete applications, if any.

Immediate steps are being implemented, including:

·         Reinforcement of assessment capacity through the allocation of additional personnel

·         Prioritisation of outstanding applications, particularly those affecting vulnerable households

·         Verification and restoration of services where pre-assessed applicants and beneficiaries’ services are disconnected

·         Acceleration of plans to digitise records and modernise application tracking systems.

 

With regards to service disconnections, the City’s policies are guided by both financial sustainability and social responsibility. Where errors are identified, immediate corrective action will be taken.

EThekwini Municipality remains committed to providing beneficiaries with access to the Indigent Support Programme and those with outstanding applications are urged to approach their nearest Sizakala Centre.

Durban Fashion Fair model search returns

 

Durban Fashion Fair model search returns 

NONDUDUZO NGCONGO

THE countdown to the iconic annual Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) showcase has officially begun as the City rolls out its highly anticipated 2026 Model Scouting Roadshows across Durban.

Marking 15 years of fashion excellence, the DFF is once again opening doors for aspiring models to step into the spotlight and launch their careers on one of Africa’s leading fashion platforms.

Young people with confidence, presence, and ambition are invited to attend casting sessions taking place from 16 May to 6 June at key locations across the City.

The roadshows kick off at KwaMashu G Hall on 16 May, followed by Durban Botanic Gardens on 23 May, uMlazi Mega City on 30 May, and conclude at the Pavilion Shopping Centre on 6 June. All sessions run from 9am to 4pm.

This life changing initiative continues to produce success stories, with previous participants securing major campaigns, walking international runways, and building sustainable careers in the fashion industry.

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the programme is a catalyst for youth empowerment and economic inclusion.

‘’Through these roadshows, we are taking opportunities directly to communities and ensuring that undiscovered talent is given a platform to shine. We call on all aspiring models to attend these roadshows.’’

To audition, applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old, with a minimum height of 1.75m for females and 1.84m for males. Attendees must arrive makeup-free, and bring their original or certified copy of their ID.

For enquiries, call 031 311 4500 or email nondumiso.mthembu@durban.gov.za

Opportunity for Women in Tourism

 

By Fred Felton | May 13, 2026

There is a new opportunity for women that work in the tourism sector to reach greater heights with a 6 month mentorship programme created by UN Tourism with the support of the Women in Tourism Leadership Africa Committee (WITLAC).

Photo: Pixabay

This programme aims to help women with leadership, assist with entrepreneurship and aid professional growth. This programme is open to women of all ages and any kind of professional background.

Young applicants are also encouraged to apply, along with leaders that are starting out, mid-career tourism professionals, entrepreneurs and women in rural areas.

The focus of the programme will be on leadership development, helping women to step into senior leadership roles in tourism, help with entrepreneurship, assistance with launching tourism businesses and management support.

The programme will also look to assist with digital innovation, professional and personal growth, skills development, education and career support, and building up the women’s voice in tourism policy.

Criteria for selection:

Those who apply must be currently working in or studying or aspiring to build a career in the tourism industry in Africa. This can cover travel, hospitality, heritage, eco-tourism, cultural tourism, academia or event planning.

They should also be looking to advance tourism development in Africa. They should also be willing to work with a mentor and be able to handle feedback.

All applicants must be able to show citizenship of one of the 51 UN Tourism African Member States.

For more information visit www.untourism.int/africa

Africa's Travel Indaba 2026 Almost Here

 

By Fred Felton | May 7, 2026

The eThekwini Municipality is ready to welcome thousands of delegates, exhibitors, and global tourism leaders for the upcoming Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026, which will take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, Rev Musa Zondi, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille and eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, at the launch of Africa's Travel Indaba 2026 held at the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal. | Photo: Supplied. 

The event happens from 11 to 14 May and kicks off with a Business Opportunity Networking Day on 11 May, followed by trade engagements over three days.

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 was officially launched by Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, along with MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, Rev Musa Zondi, and eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba. The launch was held on 4 May at the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal.

The theme for Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 is ‘Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s tourism economy’.

Africa’s premier tourism trade show brings together exhibitors, buyers, and media from across the world to promote African destinations and secure business partnerships.

The City will benefit significantly with increased visitor numbers, boosted tourism spend, local business support, and through job creation opportunities across many sectors which include hospitality, retail and transport.

Mayor Xaba said the City’s strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and warm climate continue to position Durban as a destination of choice, whether for business or leisure.

Durban is set to once again deliver a successful edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba.

Minister de Lille announced that South African President, His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, will open the trade show this year.

She noted that tourism is not merely a sector, but a powerful economic lever capable of delivering immediate, inclusive, and geographically distributed impact across the country.

MEC Zondi noted the current buyer composition of the Indaba already shows strong value for the province and the City with more than 700 buyers confirmed.

He said for this year the platform has confirmed 600 exhibiting companies with 22 African countries participating.

All nine provinces of South Africa are represented, as well as 191 independent micro, small, and medium enterprises.

‘’There will also be 840 hosted and non-hosted buyers from applications across 71 countries, and 3 315 confirmed meetings taking place,’’ added MEC Zondi.

City Engaged with Business Sector on 2026/27 Draft IDP/Budget

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 20, 2026

The eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba has started a series of consultations with key stakeholders on the Draft 2026/27 Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Budget.

EThekwini Municipality, led by Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, held its first sector consultation meeting at the Durban ICC, to discuss the Draft IDP/Budget for the 2026/27 financial year. | Photo: Supplied.

Mayor Xaba engaged with representatives from the business sector at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on 13 April 2026.

There was a big turnout of business leaders at this session to learn more about the Draft Budget and its possible impact, while also providing valuable input to the City.

The total Draft Budget for 2026/27 amounts to a capital allocation of R5.9 billion and an operating budget of R68.8 billion. It’s geared towards building a resilient and inclusive economy that supports business development and job creation.

‘’Your input is important and critical to us. It has been a challenging budget to balance, given the global and domestic economic climate. We have placed a strong focus on upgrading infrastructure, accelerating service delivery, and investing in catalytic projects, particularly those that create employment,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

This budget introduced a range of initiatives aimed at stimulating economic activity and enhancing the ease of doing business. Key focus areas include infrastructure improvement, support for small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs), and digital transformation to modernise Municipal services and improve efficiency.

In partnership with the private sector, several large-scale developments are underway and these include the Durban Film City, TradePort expansion initiatives, and various nodal developments. These projects represent a combined investment value of approximately R217 billion and are expected to significantly boost the Municipal rates base while also creating thousands of job opportunities.

After the presentation, stakeholders were invited to provide feedback. While many welcomed the budget, others raised concerns relating to tariff increases, road and stormwater infrastructure, tourism development, the Go! Durban project, and the inclusion of local SMMEs in procurement processes.

Mayor Xaba reaffirmed the City’s commitment to working closely with the business sector to unlock economic opportunities, improve on service delivery, and position eThekwini as a leading destination for investment.

There will be upcoming engagements with a variety of sectors in the next weeks. Keep your eyes on the City’s social media platforms for more information on hearings in your area of eThekwini.

Call to exhibit at 28th Durban Business Fair

 

Call to exhibit at 28th Durban Business Fair

NONDUDUZO NGCONGO

MORE than 50 businesses have secured exhibition space for the 28^th Durban Business Fair (DBF).

EThekwini Municipality invites local entrepreneurs to register to exhibit at the fair before the 17 April deadline. Photo: Supplied. 

This year’s edition themed, ‘’28 years of connecting SMMEs to markets and opportunities’’, will take place at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 20 April to 2 May.

EThekwini Municipality invites local entrepreneurs to register to exhibit at the fair before the 17 April deadline. In addition to the exhibition, the fair will feature a series of empowerment sessions, focusing on innovation, access to funding, and connecting businesses to international markets.

Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said the fair played a significant role in strengthening the local small, medium, and micro sized enterprises (SMME) sector. ‘’Since 1998, more than 40 000 businesses have participated, with over 130 000 buyers and visitors attending and engaging with exhibitors. The initiative has helped create more than 21 000 sustainable jobs.’’

Application forms are available at:

·         199 Anton Lembede Street, 7^th Floor

·         All Sizakala Centres

·         Online from www.durban.gov.za by clicking the Business icon, then SMME Development and selecting the Durban Business Fair page.

·         Email zamani.shezi@durban.gov.za to request a form

 

For enquiries, businesses can call 031 311 4500.

EThekwini leads energy revival with refinery restoration

 

EThekwini leads energy revival with refinery restoration

KWANDA ZONDI

IN A decisive move to strengthen South Africa’s energy security, eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele, alongside the Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Phumzile Mgcina, conducted a strategic oversight visit to the former SAPREF Refinery in Prospecton recently.

Once a cornerstone of the country’s fuel production, the facility, now rebranded as the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) Refinery, is being repositioned as a key driver of industrial renewal.

Strategically located within the petrochemical value chain and adjacent to the Port of Durban’s logistics hub, the refinery is central to the economic vitality of KwaZulu-Natal.

‘’This is more than a technical inspection; it signals strong alignment between national and local government,’’ said Deputy Minister Mgcina. Mbhele added: ‘’The SANPC Refinery is a critical asset for both the municipal and national economy. Its revival will ensure that eThekwini remains globally competitive in industrial development.’’

The refinery’s return to operation is expected to unlock strategic crude supply opportunities aligned with BRICS partnerships. By leveraging South Africa’s membership, the facility aims to secure more reliable and diversified energy sources, contributing to greater fuel price stability.

The restoration project is projected to deliver significant economic benefits, including approximately 12 500 construction jobs and 2 850 permanent positions. It is also expected to contribute an estimated 1.8 percent to the national GDP, with a strong emphasis on inclusive growth through a targeted 65 percent local content threshold.

2026/27 Draft Budget tabled for public consultation

 

2026/27 Draft Budget tabled 

for public consultation

ROMITA

HANUMAN-PILLAY

ETHEKWINI Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba tabled the City’s R74.7 billion budget during a Full Council meeting on 31 March at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

With an operating budget of R68.8 billion and a capital budget of R5.9 billion, it will now be released to all sectors for consultation and feedback and will thereafter be adopted in May, after considering all comments.

The Draft Budget is based on the principles of sustainability and realistic revenue projections and projects that are ready for rollout.

Mayor Xaba said: ‘’The 2026/27 Draft Budget highlights that eThekwini Municipality is able to endure a challenging economic environment and emerge stronger, more sustainable, and better positioned to serve communities. This budget balances fiscal discipline with targeted revenue growth, aiming to manage high debt while supporting vulnerable households, infrastructure and job creation.’’

As a caring Municipality, the provision of rates rebates and a basket of free basic services will be funded through equitable share. A significant chunk of the budget is prioritised for Trading Services Reforms, which aims to improve efficiency in water sanitation, and energy. A total of R1.1 billion will be spent on Trading Service Reform projects.

The capital budget for the 2026/27 financial year amounts to approximately R5.9 billion and will be spent on the upgrade and expansion of wastewater treatment works, replacement of water pipes, and water loss prevention.

The budget will be presented to residents, business, and civil society through a series of consultations that will be advertised on the City’s official platforms and in the media.

The proposed tariff increases are based on the increases submitted by bulk providers, Eskom (9 percent) and uMngeni-uThukela Water (13 percent), taking into account the affordability of residents and the sustainability of the Municipality.

Water

Residential – 15%

Business – 16%

Electricity

Residential – 10.5%

Business – 10.5%

Sanitation

Residential

Business

Property Rates – 5%

Refuse – 13%

To ensure alignment with ward priorities, the Municipality has started engagements with councillors. At these meetings, draft capital budget allocations are presented per ward, providing councillors with an opportunity to review proposed projects, identify any discrepancies or omissions, and submit corrections and additional inputs.

Highlights from Ocean Innovation Africa 2026

 

By Fred Felton | Apr. 5, 2026

On 23^rd March the eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba officially opened the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC). During this time Durban was positioned as a world focal point for maritime innovation and sustainability.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba officially opened the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, positioning the City as a leading hub for Africa's blue economy. | Photo: Supplied. 

The summit took place from 23 to 25 March and transformed Durban into a dynamic hub where people from around the globe came together to discuss maritime issues.

This event brought together leading innovators, investors, and policymakers with a shared mission of advancing sustainable ocean development while unlocking economic growth across Africa.

In his keynote address, Mayor Xaba emphasised Durban’s strategic role in shaping the future of the sector.

‘’We are not just looking at the horizon, we are navigating toward it. From regenerative action that heals our coastline to cutting-edge maritime technology powering our ports, Durban is the heartbeat of the African blue-economy,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The theme of the summit was ‘’Accelerating and Scaling Out Regenerative Blue Economy Action.’’ There were various discussions and workshops around issues such as artificial intelligence, sustainable aquaculture, and innovative coastal management strategies.

There were participants and speakers from around the world including Charlina Vitcheva of the European Commission.

‘’The state of the ocean needs action. We need to scale up. EU is investing in future governance of oceans. Ocean science must be developed everywhere. Challenges are big but so are the opportunities to make a difference,’’ noted Ms. Charlina Vitcheva of the European Commission.

South African startups also presented breakthrough solutions in areas such as plastic-neutural shipping and reef restoration, showing the country’s readiness to lead in sustainable ocean practices.

OceanHub Africa’s Impact Report was also released at the summit. Alexis Grosskopf, Founder and CEO of OceanHub Africa was very upbeat about the event and that is why they decided to release the report at the event.

‘’We are an impact driven organisation. How are we going to measure, we need standards,’’ said Alexis Grosskopf of OceanHub Africa.

He was also thankful to eThekwini Municipality for helping them with this event.

‘’They have helped us tremendously, they have attended previous events, they came to us and said let’s make it happen in Durban. The eThekwini Municipality also provided us with the best venue in the Durban ICC’’ noted Alexis Grosskopf of OceanHub Africa.

The summit included intensive workshops and B2B meetings between global investors, entrepreneurs and policymakers. These engagements helped to advance Africa’s blue economy.

The workshops included the Municipality’s Blue Finance workshop, Artificial Intelligence for Good initiatives, and the UNDP + AUC Accelerator Programme Validation.

‘’The Ocean Innovation Africa Summit is one of the City Manager’s flagship programmes. Our biggest asset is our ocean, and our residents must benefit from this dialogue,’’ said Takalani Rathiyaya from the Economic Development Directorate.

At the conclusion of the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit the eThekwini Municipality has reaffirmed its ambition to transform its 100km coastline into a globally competitive hub for sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship.

Delegates of the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit continued to ride the wave of inspiration. From breakthrough technologies to sustainable solutions, the tide is turning for Africa's oceans. | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’Our mission is clear: to integrate economic growth with climate resilience,’’ said Nomalanga Sokhela, Programme Manager for Maritime Industry Development.

Environmental sustainability remains at the core of the City’s vision.

The Municipality is also advancing maritime tourism through cruise ship development and waterfront regeneration to ensure broader economic participation.

With the newly established Blue Economy Forum, eThekwini will coordinate efforts with Transnet, national government, and academic institutions to drive data-led evidence-based decision-making.

The Municipality called on all stakeholders to partner in shaping a resilient, inclusive and prosperous ocean economy.

One hundred youth to gain hands-on skills

 

One hundred youth to gain hands-on skills

SANE SHANDU

ETHEKWINI Municipality is taking bold steps to equip local youth with practical, life-changing skills. On 5 March, 100 unemployed young people from Ntuzuma and surrounding areas enrolled in a three-month vocational training programme through the eThekwini Municipal Academy.

One hundred young people have enrolled in a three-month vocational training programme where they  will be equipped with practical skills to find employment. | Photo: Supplied. 

The training spans plumbing, electricity, bricklaying, and tiling, linked to ongoing construction projects including Ntuzuma Mall, Nozaza Node Hub, housing developments, and other community upgrades.

Participants will gain hands-on experience and, upon completion, transition directly into roles on these projects, turning skills development into real employment and enterprise opportunities.

Ward 42 Councillor Fisokuhle Mngadi praised the initiative. ‘’This programme ensures young people can access local opportunities instead of labour being brought in from outside. It is a practical step towards building local capacity and uplifting the community.’’

The programme strengthens local maintenance capacity, accelerates service delivery, and keeps economic benefits circulating within the community.

Participant Nokwanda Mazibuko, a young woman entering the male-dominated trade of tiling, described the programme as ‘’life-changing.’’ ‘’This programme is giving me a real skill and a future. It has also afforded me a chance to uplift my family and my community.’’

Mayor fast-tracks housing for displaced flood victims

 

Mayor fast-tracks housing for displaced flood victims

METRO REPORTER

ETHEKWINI Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba has expressed confidence in the City’s plan to provide decent housing for flood victims.

This follows his oversight visit to Montclair Lodge on 5 March, to assess progress of the refurbishment of the facility, which will temporarily accommodate disaster victims.

The project is being implemented jointly by eThekwini Municipality, as well as the provincial and national government. Mayor Xaba said he was satisfied with the progress made in refurbishing the first 272 units. In total, the project will deliver 500 units.

‘’The completion of this project is crucial, as it will provide government with its own facility to accommodate disaster victims instead of relying on privately-owned facilities. Each time we have disasters, we will know where to take victims to while awaiting permanent housing,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

The refurbishment project is expected to be completed by June this year. The first occupants of the lodge will be flood victims currently accommodated in temporary emergency accommodation. They will be housed there temporarily while awaiting the completion of permanent houses in the Cornubia Housing Project.

The Mayor last month visited the Cornubia Housing Project to assess progress of the construction of permanent housing for flood victims.

Already, 113 houses are nearing completion. The total yield of the project is 1 200 units, which will be able to accommodate all flood victims currently in temporary emergency accommodation.

Boost for City tourism following statue unveiling

 

Boost for City tourism 

following statue unveiling

GUGU MDLALOSE

TWO landmark statues that were recently unveiled have added a boost to the City’s tourism offerings.

The statues of two struggle icons, Nelson Mandela and former ANC President Oliver Tambo, were unveiled by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 3 March.

The event was marked with traditional dancing and vibrant displays of culture, with the unveiling described by President Ramaphosa as ‘’historic’’.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the sites and engage with the stories of the two stalwarts whose leadership shaped the nation.

At each statue site there is extensive history about the leader which visitors can download using a QR code to access more information.

President Ramaphosa said eThekwini Municipality has bestowed this honour on two icons in recognition of their contribution towards the struggle for freedom, social justice, and the empowerment of people.

‘’Monuments of this nature are important for preserving our history and heritage,’’ he said.

The location of each statue is significant. The Mandela statue is in the Moses Mabhida precinct near the Kings Park Stadium. Soon after his release from prison in 1990 Mandela addressed his first large mass rally in Durban at the Kings Park Stadium. The rally drew more than 200 000 people.

In the same vein, the towering statue of Oliver Tambo on the beachfront is a reminder of his journey across oceans convincing the world about the importance of breaking down the walls of apartheid.

President Ramaphosa also touched on the impact the statues will have on tourism in the City saying:

‘’We can anticipate that these statues will contribute to exceptional growth in tourism in eThekwini.’’

Cementing the City’s status as an events and sporting capital, he said eThekwini will be the venue for the 46^th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community taking place in August.

‘’This is a worthy recognition of the progress that has been made together with all social partners in restoring confidence in the City.’’

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Xaba said the statues will inspire present and future generations to learn more about the contributions these struggle icons made in building a democratic South Africa.

Speaking on other monuments in the City, Mayor Xaba said the Indentured Workers Monument, commissioned in partnership with the provincial government, was unveiled in November last year at South Beach.

It commemorated 165 years since the arrival of the first indentured Indian workers in KwaZulu-Natal.

‘’We are also engaging the Embassy of Portugal regarding the relocation of the statue of Portuguese poet, Fernando Pessoa, from the city centre to the Durban Botanic Gardens. These monuments form part of our broader strategy to expand tourism infrastructure and enhance tourism offerings,’’ he concluded.