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IOL News
5 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Comrades Marathon provides R600 million boost for KwaZulu-Natal economy
Durban to host Bafana Bafana? Durban's Mose Mabhida Stadium has been the venue that hosts some of the city's big sporting events, and generating huge revenue. Image: Leon Lestrade/Independent Media The start of the Comrades Marathon, that attracted thousands of athletes and spectators, began the City Hall in Pietermaritzburg and finished at Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium. Image: Supplied THE KwaZulu-Natal economy received a boost of over R600 million, all spinning off Sunday's running of the 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon, which was said to have attracted around 20 000 runners. Much of that spend would have landed in Durban coffers as this year's Comrades 'down run' finished at city's Moses Mabhida Stadium. 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 Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading It has been good recent goings for Durban in terms of earning from big events. Media reports have indicated that the Africa Travel Indaba netted the city around R570 million, and the Nedbank Cup final between Soweto giants Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, also in May, scored revenue of nearly R100 million for Durban. Last week's Isuzu Ironman 70.3 Durban event and the shoals of sardines that beached on the city's shores, attractions in their own right, would have also produced some nice nibbles for the local economy. The Hollywoodbets Durban July race day is a big drawcard event for the city. Image: Tumi Pakkies/African News Agency(ANA) Currently, Gold Circle's Champions Season, which attracts some of the country's top thoroughbred horses to racing events, is in full gallop. The Champion Seasons' main offering, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, a horserace that always produces a massive injection of earnings for local hospitality and tourism operators, as well as other related industries, is scheduled for July 5. Rosemary Anderson, chairperson of the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa, said the current financial boom for Durban underlined what a powerhouse sports tourism has become globally. 'UN Tourism reports it accounts for about 10 % of all tourism spending, while market analysis shows the sector was valued at over USD 680 billion in 2023 and is on track to double by 2030. 'This demonstrates just how high‑impact sports events can be – not only do they inject immediate revenue, but they also elevate a destination's global profile, create jobs, and lay the groundwork for repeat visitation,' Anderson also appreciated the impact the Comrades had on local businesses. 'Durban and KwaZulu‑Natal have enjoyed a good tourism and hospitality boost, and organisers estimate the event injected over R600 million into the local economy, which supported at least 1 800 jobs across hospitality, transport, and event services . 'This isn't just about the race day; fully booked hotels in Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Umhlanga, extended stays by supporters and families, pre‑ and post‑race tourism, and packed restaurants and attractions have created a vibrant ripple effect.' As the Hollywoodbets Durban July was on the horizon, Anderson said it was on track to provide another golden opportunity for a grand pay day– and the city should seize it. 'Events like the July have the potential to further amplify tourism, luring domestic and international visitors, filling accommodation, energising the restaurant and retail sectors, and boosting brand Durban on the world stage. 'The more we host quality sporting events, the more we unlock value for our tourism and hospitality industry – and in South Africa, that's a strategy worth pursuing aggressively. 'As FEDHASA - we hope that the Dept of Sports, Arts and Culture – will work towards dramatically increasing the number of international sporting events held in SA, " Anderson appealed. The eThekwini Municipality's mayor, Cyril Xaba, said hosting the Comrades continues to position Durban as a most preferred sporting destination. 'eThekwini is proud to host this global event, and roll-out the red carpet for runners and spectators. We always do our best in ensuring that our visitors' stay is an unforgettable one, to affirm Durban as a destination of choice for major events. ''Hosting such major international events brings us much joy, as it is a strong indication that we are among other international cities known for successfully delivering memorable sporting events. We will continue to leverage on such events as they boost the local economy and drive tourism,' said Xaba. DAILY NEWS
News24
22-05-2025
- News24
What does Paul Mashatile's visit to France mean for African expansion?
Deputy President Paul Mashatile speaks at the Africa Travel Indaba in Durban. Chrizelda Kekana/News24 Be among those who shape the future with knowledge. Uncover exclusive stories that captivate your mind and heart with our FREE 14-day subscription trial. Dive into a world of inspiration, learning, and empowerment. You can only trial once.
The Citizen
20-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Are more South Africans travelling again since the pandemic? Tips for travel agencies to stay ahead
Travellers now see that while information is available online, engaging with a travel agent is about getting expert insights. The global tourism sector, once one of the most dynamic industries, continues to grapple with the long-lasting impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. Although international and domestic travel have resumed, the industry is still striving to return to pre-pandemic levels of activity. To truly recover, a fundamental shift is required—not just in operations, but in how travel is marketed and experienced. Consumer behaviour has changed significantly, with travellers now prioritising flexibility, safety, and personalised experiences. As a result, traditional travel agencies and tourism bodies must rebrand and modernise their approach to align with the new expectations of a cautious and value-conscious customer base. Affordability has also become a major concern, particularly in South Africa, where many people are still recovering from the financial setbacks of the pandemic. Coupled with a sluggish economy, the high cost of travel is a major barrier preventing many from booking holidays. ALSO READ: Will more people travel this year compared to last? What keeps the tourism sector alive? Kele Lekalake, executive manager at Harvey World Travel (HWT) Southern Africa, told The Citizen that cross-selling and upselling become even more critical because a trip to London is not just a flight, a hotel, and a taxi; it's about what else you could do to explore your destination. 'We are seeing destinations that were not as popular becoming more so, like, for example, Vietnam, Türkiye, Morocco.' Lekalake said it is important for businesses to rebrand because consumer behaviours change; therefore, a rebranding helps to keep up with what is trending. Government role in the sector 'Small businesses require an opportunity to bid competitively for business, as they have the skill set and resources that are available in big companies. 'It is therefore important to allow them that opportunity, supporting their initiatives, such as the introduction of systems and technology that can better support your systems and improve cash flow management,' she added. Lekalake said that technology, as an enabler, and social media, as an influencer, are the new world in the industry. She said travellers now see that while information is available online, engaging with a travel agent is about getting expert insights. ALSO READ: How to boost hospitality profits this festive season Africa Travel Indaba Africa's Travel Indaba is one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and one of the top three 'must-visit' events of its kind on the global calendar. It showcases the widest variety of Africa's best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. Africa's Travel Indaba is owned by South African Tourism. This year, it took place in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, from 12 to 15 May 2025. How Africa Indaba performed According to Thembisile Sehloho, chief marketing officer of South African Tourism, the projected economic benefits of Africa's Travel Indaba 2025, encompassing event infrastructure and logistics, as well as accommodation, restaurants, and local transport services, have been substantial. 'The direct economic impact of Africa's Travel Indaba on Durban's GDP is estimated at R574-million, with direct spending totalling more than R232-million, highlighting the substantial economic benefits. 'Additionally, the event created more than 2 000 jobs, particularly for the youth and local communities, with an anticipated household income contribution exceeding R140 million.' Hotel sector performance The latest available stats for the hotel sector show growth in its income levels for November 2024, which could suggest South Africans have recovered financially. While income levels are above those recorded before the Covid-19 lockdowns, it is worth noting that when adjusting for inflation, the 'real picture' is that the sector still has not fully recovered. John Loos, FNB's property strategist, says the higher single-digit growth, outpacing general inflation, is encouraging. NOW READ: Tourism department calls on SMMEs to apply for 'Market Access' programme amid global uncertainty
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 grows attendance, boosts Durban economy
Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 has contributed notably to Durban's economy and local communities. The event impacted sectors including infrastructure, logistics, accommodation, restaurants, and transport. Preliminary figures estimate the event added around R574m to Durban's GDP, with direct spending exceeding R232m. Over 2,000 jobs were created, primarily benefiting youth and local communities, and expected household income from these jobs surpasses R140m. Attendance and participation figures The event drew nearly 10,000 attendees — a 7.7% increase from 2024 — and facilitated over 24,500 meetings. It hosted 1,348 exhibitors and 1,037 buyers, the highest numbers in four years, with participation from 27 African countries, including new entrants such as Chad, St Helena, and Burkina Faso. Africa's Travel Indaba 2025 opened with addresses by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille. Growing engagement Thembisile Sehloho, chief marketing officer of South African Tourism, said: "We delivered the continent's main platform for tourism products and experiences. The increase in participating African countries demonstrates growing engagement. This reflects the growth and potential of the African tourism sector under 'Unlimited Africa." Winile Mntungwa, deputy head of Durban Tourism, noted: "The event's economic effects extended beyond the city centre, benefiting township and rural tourism enterprises — formal and informal — including hospitality businesses involved in pre- and post-tours and local services." Sibusiso Gumbi, acting CEO of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority, added: 'KwaZulu-Natal hosted Africa's Travel Indaba with record attendance from delegates, buyers, and airlines. We supported 26 emerging tourism businesses who had opportunities to network with buyers across Africa.' Gumbi also mentions new partnerships with eSwatini Tourism and the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation Area Joint Marketing Agreement as part of growing the African market for KwaZulu-Natal. Sandile Makhanya, acting marketing and communications executive at Durban ICC, said: 'As the ICC, we continue to ensure the event showcases Africa and contributes to the local economy. We involved students from Durban University of Technology and local culinary talents for hands-on experience.' Source: Supplied Support for small businesses, sustainability efforts The Department of Tourism and provincial authorities supported roughly 400 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to attend, providing access to buyers. South African Tourism offered free exhibition space for small businesses promoting arts and crafts through a sustainability village. Minister Patricia de Lille outlined the Department's targets for the next five years, including increasing tourism employment from about 1.84 million to 2.5 million jobs, growing domestic spend by 25%, raising tourism's GDP contribution from 8.8% to 10%, and adding one million international air arrivals annually. She also introduced the new global brand campaign: 'South Africa awaits – Come Find Your Joy!' Deputy President Paul Mashatile said: "Travel and tourism contributed 6.8% to Africa's GDP in 2023, projected to rise to 10.4% by 2030. In South Africa, tourism accounts for 8.9% of GDP and supports 1.68 million jobs, with plans to increase that to 2.2 million jobs by 2030." All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Eyewitness News
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Eyewitness News
Late ANCWL's Mnganga-Gcabashe hailed for principled leadership, lifelong service
JOHANNESBURG - Tributes continue to pour in for African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL) deputy president, Lungi Mnganga-Gcabashe, following her passing on Saturday. She died at her KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) home at the age of 64, after undergoing an undisclosed medical procedure. Mnganga-Gcabashe's last public appearance was more than a week ago at the Africa Travel Indaba in Durban. An anti-apartheid activist, Mnganga-Gcabashe also served as the chairperson of the portfolio committee on tourism and was a member of the ANC's national executive committee (NEC). She's been hailed for her principled leadership and lifelong community service. President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile both believe her contributions to the struggles for gender equality and non-racialism will be part of her legacy. ANC spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri, said Mnganga-Gcabashe's passing leaves a deep void. 'She was a beacon of calm in turbulent times, a voice of reason when the noise was loud, and a steady hand in the rebuilding of our country's democracy. She did not enter politics for position or prestige. She was called by her community, elected by residents to represent them in peace committees during some of the darkest years of political violence in KwaZulu-Natal.' 'PROFOUND VOID' Parliament and political parties have joined in the tributes pouring in for Mnganga-Gcabashe. Parliament's presiding officers said she has left a 'profound void' in the parliamentary community and the nation. Parliament spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo, said parliament's presiding officers learnt with shock of Mnganga-Gcabashe's passing. 'They said that honourable Mnganga-Gcabashe was the embodiment of dignified public service. She served in parliament with humility and unwavering dedication. In every committee she led, she was firm yet fair, and she led with compassion and strong principle.' The MK Party also sent its condolences to her family and colleagues in the ANC.
