KwaZulu-Natal set to showcase tourism and film opportunities at TIFA 2025
Image: Supplied
KwaZulu-Natal is poised to shine on the world stage when it hosts the much-anticipated Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA) later this month in uMhlathuze.
This prominent event aims to attract global investors, policymakers, and industry leaders, serving as a vital platform for unlocking investment opportunities within the province, particularly in its flourishing tourism and film sectors.
The forum, to be staged in Richards Bay, promises to highlight KwaZulu-Natal's diverse appeal, characterised by breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a wealth of attractions ranging from the pristine coastline to the Drakensberg Mountains and historic battlefields.
Sibusiso Gumbi, acting CEO of KZN Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA), said KZN was more than just a destination but a dynamic investment hub with untapped.
'TIFA 2025 is our chance to show the world that our province is not only a land of incredible natural and cultural wealth but also a smart, strategic place to invest,' Gumbi said.
'We are particularly excited to showcase the symbiotic relationship between our tourism and film industries, and how they can be leveraged to drive sustainable economic growth and community empowerment.'
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Next
Stay
Close ✕
The Forum is expected to bring together a mix of key decision-makers, including local and international business leaders, government ministers, financial institutions, and private investors.
'By offering a unique platform to present market-ready tourism projects, the TIFA enables African destinations to secure investment, ensuring long-term economic success.'
Jackie Motsepe, chief operating officer of KZNTAFA. said KZN came alive this July - not just through film, but across every corridor of the tourism economy.
'Film tourism is also gaining traction, with increased online search interest in the locations that have featured in award-winning productions like Disaster Holiday and Sent, which were funded by KZNTAFA.'
Motsepe added that in July dozens of international location scouts, producers, and streamers, hosted by KZNTAFA, went on tours across the province throughout the month, affirming the region's status as a cinematic destination of choice.
"From the Drakensberg plateaus to Durban's coastline, filmmakers were astonished at the range we offer. I am delighted to say that many left planning their next shoot - right here in KZN.'
BUSINESS REPORT
Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority.
Image: Supplied
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
2 hours ago
- IOL News
Why smart women still struggle with money – and what to do about it
retirement savings, money matters The 10X Retirement Reality Report (2023) found that nearly half of South African women (49%) don't have a retirement plan, compared to 43% of men. More women see themselves as savers. Image: File We know how to save, stretch a budget, cover school fees, and find the best deals. But ask us about investing or long-term financial planning, and many smart, capable women still feel like we're getting it wrong. A survey shared by financial journalist Maya Fisher-French in partnership with Satrix revealed something striking: while women are highly competent money managers, only 15% rate themselves as very knowledgeable about investing, compared to 42% of men. That's not a knowledge gap; it's a confidence gap. And it's costing us. The cost of playing it safe The 10X Retirement Reality Report (2023) found that nearly half of South African women (49%) don't have a retirement plan, compared to 43% of men. More women see themselves as 'savers,' while fewer identify as 'investors.' It's a cautious, risk-aware approach to money that often limits long-term growth. Cash savings rarely keep pace with inflation. True financial freedom requires a long-term investment strategy that benefits from diversified returns across different asset classes. logo Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Interestingly, a 2021 study by global asset manager Fidelity found that women outperformed men by 40 basis points on their investment returns - not because they took more risk, but because they were more consistent and long-term focused. While I meet more and more women taking control of their money - empowering themselves with knowledge, confidence, and clear plans for the future - many others still feel stuck. But the shift is real. It's a reminder that we're more capable than we believe, and that change is already happening. We don't need to be overnight experts. But we do need to start seeing ourselves as capable - and worthy - of building wealth. Why so many women still feel stuck Over the years, I've sat with senior executives, entrepreneurs, teachers, and single mothers - successful women, deeply committed to their families and futures. And yet, when we talk about money - especially long-term planning or investing - I still hear the same words: I'm not good with money. I don't know where to start. I'm not confident with finances. Money doesn't interest me. I'd rather let someone else handle it. Behind the spreadsheets are stories of guilt, shame, sacrifice, and silence. The struggle has little to do with numbers - and everything to do with the beliefs we carry. Most of us weren't taught to see ourselves as financial decision-makers. We were raised to be caregivers and nurturers - praised for selflessness, not independence. These stories stay with us. They shape our confidence and leave us stuck - hesitant to invest or make bold decisions for our future. When life shifts, so do our money habits Divorce, death, retrenchment, empty nest, retirement, supporting adult children - these are deeply emotional chapters, and they often expose the financial cracks we've ignored. Sometimes we overspend to numb grief. Sometimes we give too much to avoid feeling selfish. We often spend our time and money on our children and parents, with nothing left for our own secure future. Sometimes we freeze - unsure of how to move forward, so we don't. And often, we make decisions from a place of guilt, shame, or fear. I've met women who trusted their partners to manage the money, only to find later that everything had been squandered or mismanaged. I've met others who handed control to a financial planner without truly understanding what was being done with their funds. I cannot tell you how often women walk into my office after the death of a spouse with no idea where to begin. A divorce is often where all your protective defence mechanisms and wounds are exposed, and one of the places where it is hardest to separate emotions and money. I've seen women who hand over their power and security for the wrong reasons: because they feel guilty, embarrassed or responsible. These are not 'bad' financial decisions. They are emotional responses to very real pain. Why emotional habits shape our money choices I often hear clients say: I don't deserve it. I blew it. I wish I had started sooner. I'm not earning. It's not mine. Money gives me confidence. Many of our poor money habits are deeply tied to our emotional lives. We stay out of financial conversations not because we don't care, but because we feel inadequate. We give too much, not because we have too much - but because we want to feel worthy. When you start to see your money behaviour as a mirror of your inner world, you can begin to change the script. Start with clarity, not shame There's power in simply seeing things as they are. What do you own? What do you owe? What do you spend? What do you want? Clarity means you're paying attention. It gives you the foundation to plan, make intentional choices, and set boundaries with love and firmness. A life plan and a financial plan together help you shift from reacting to your circumstances to creating your future. Small steps to reclaim your power You don't need to do everything at once. But you do need to start. And the first step isn't financial; it's personal. It's about shifting from self-doubt to self-trust. Get clear - know what you own, what you owe, what you spend, and what you want. Build a plan for your life and your money. When you know what matters to you, your money decisions become purposeful. Talk about money - the more we normalise these conversations, the more empowered we become. Ask for help and work with a financial planner who supports your whole journey – not just the numbers. Track your giving. Be generous, but not at the cost of your own future. You are your greatest asset This isn't about blaming ourselves for not doing better. It's about giving ourselves permission to show up - with courage, clarity, and authenticity. Your earning power, your ability to grow, your insight and wisdom - these are the things that will carry you forward. You don't have to prove anything. You simply have to begin by paying attention to your money and being intentional with your life. Kim Potgieter, Certified Financial Planner, Author and Coach. Image: Supplied
IOL News
4 hours ago
- IOL News
New era, new identity: Stormers unveil updated logo
New identity The Stormers unveiled their new logo as they continue to prepare for the new United Rugby Championship season. Photo: Stormers on X Image: Stormers on X The Stormers unveiled a fresh new logo on Thursday, updating the emblem that has represented the Cape Town-based rugby team for more than 25 years. The redesign comes as the franchise embraces a new era, reflecting both its growth and its connection with the communities that support it. 'We have seen some major developments to the way we operate and where we see ourselves going as a club. This felt like the right time to update our identity as we embrace a new era, with all of our stakeholders 'In it together' with us,' said Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux. Le Roux added that the previous logo had long outlived its time. Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'The previous logo was over 25 years old and past due an upgrade. This new logo holds far more symbolism, with the hoops of the jersey making up an icon that represents the unity of the various communities that support our team. But this is about far more than just a logo. This is a statement about how we see ourselves and the way we connect with those who support us. We want all of them with us every step of the way as we break new ground.' Director of Rugby John Dobson emphasized that the new identity aligns with the Stormers' broader mission to 'make Cape Town smile.' 'This team is one of the best-supported in the world. We have some of the most vibrant rugby communities and no shortage of passion at every level. This is a big step forward in many ways as we take the DHL Stormers from being a rugby team to so much more. We are 'in it together' with everyone who is coming on this exciting new journey with us,' Dobson said. The updated logo marks a symbolic step in the Stormers' evolution, reflecting both their history and their ambitions as they look to the future. IOL Sport
IOL News
4 hours ago
- IOL News
Nedbank acquires iKhokha for R1. 65 billion to enhance support for South African SMEs"
iKhokha starting transaction rates are competitive compared with competitors such as Yoco and Capitec Pay. The company has been acquired by Nedbank for about R1.65 billion. Image: Supplied Nedbank Group plans to acquire 100% of fintech innovator iKhokha in an all-cash deal of about R1.65 billion, a significant move in Nedbank's strategy to deepen its support for small and medium-sized enterprises through digital innovation and inclusive financial services. Founded in 2012, iKhokha has become a leading partner to many thousands of South African entrepreneurs, and shares the marke with competitors such as Yoco and Capitec Pay. The company, founded by Matt Putman, Ramsay Daly, and Clive Putman, provides card machines, digital payment solutions, and business tools to SMEs, processing north of R20 billion annually in digital payments and other services. 'This acquisition is a natural evolution of our existing relationship with iKhokha, and we are incredibly excited to welcome iKhokha to our Nedbank family,' said Nedbank Group Managing Executive for Personal and Private Banking, Ciko Thomas. The acquisition will see iKhokha become a fully owned subsidiary of Nedbank, while continuing to operate under its own brand and leadership team. Thomas said the acquisition represented 'a pivotal moment' in their strategy to empower the SME market. 'By combining their innovative technology with our deep banking experience, we will provide small business clients with the best-in-class tools they need to thrive,' said Thomas. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'We believe that empowering entrepreneurs is essential to building a thriving and inclusive economy,' said Nedbank Group CEO Jason Quinn. He said iKhokha's mission and technology aligned 'perfectly' with the bank's aim of digital transformation in the SME sector. 'Together, we will unlock new opportunities for growth and financial inclusion in South Africa and potentially abroad,' said Quinn. The transaction also marked a successful exit for iKhokha's long-standing investors - Apis Partners, Crossfin Holdings, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). These investors played a big role in supporting the management team in scaling iKhokha's operations and product innovation. 'Their exit reflects the strong performance and strategic value of the business and underscores their confidence in Nedbank's ability to take iKhokha into its next phase of growth.' Crossfin had backed the iKhokha founders from the initial concept to become a uniquely positioned business with an attractive growth profile and much to offer the South African SME market. Crossfin Holdings CEO Dean Sparrow said in a statement: 'We are extremely proud of what has been achieved by the iKhokha team and the fact that we have found a great home for the business, its people, and the SME market it services.' Apis Partners managing partners Matteo Stefanel and Udayan Goyal said they were 'incredibly proud of how far iKhokha has come — from a promising fintech startup to one of South Africa's leading payment providers. Our partnership with Matt and the team has been deeply rewarding, not only in terms of the company's rapid growth but also its powerful impact on thousands of South African SMEs.' They said they were confident iKhokha would continue to scale its aims of driving financial inclusion and empowering entrepreneurs, as it entered its next phase under the ownership of Nedbank. CEO and co-founder of iKhokha, Matt Putman, said joining forces with Nedbank gave them the platform to scale their impact, further accelerate product innovation, and unlock new value for their merchants.
