KDM cancels R350k Durban July Ballito Experience sponsorship
The decision was made during a special council meeting held on Wednesday, July 2, just days before the first event on Friday, July 4.
The sponsorship, intended to support the Durban July Ballito Experience, hosted by Enterprise iLembe, sparked widespread criticism after it was revealed that two of the three event days (July 4–6) would be held in eThekwini, outside KDM's jurisdiction.
The event had already received R5-million in funding from the national Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, raising questions about the necessity and appropriateness of additional municipal support.
Following deliberations, council decided the sponsorship would not be in line with the Municipal Finance Management Act and rescinded the funds.
The Durban July Ballito Experience begins with a golf day at Umhlali Country Club for government officials and investors on July 4, ending with a cultural fashion, food and music event at Beach Bums in Westbrook on July 6.
On Saturday, the business and tourism agency are also hosting a swish VIP Durban July event at Greyville Racecourse.
Speaking at the event launch at the Sangweni Tourist Information Centre in Ballito on June 3, Enterprise iLembe CEO, Siyabonga Mazibuko said the event was expected to create up to 500 local jobs, although it was not confirmed whether these would be full-time or contract positions.
Enterprise iLembe and KDM were met with criticism from the Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaDukuza, who along with The MK Party, did not support the sponsorship.
DA caucus leader Privi Makhan accused the KwaDukuza Council's leadership of misusing public funds to benefit politically connected individuals under the pretext of economic development.
Makhan called it a victory for residents and ratepayers. She also accused the ANC-led council of attempting to 'steamroll' the payment through despite clear opposition.
'Their plan to bankroll an event outside our jurisdiction was a clear betrayal of responsible governance for an event being held outside KDM,' said Makhan.
'Our residents deserve leaders who put their needs first, not those leaders who are merely political side-shows, attempting to pay off their debt through council coffers.'
Enterprise iLembe and KDM officials were unavailable for comment at the time of publication.
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