Latest news with #DurbanTourism
IOL News
4 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Tourism stakeholders reject eThekwini Municipality's proposed levy
A helicopter view of the Durban beachfront Image: File The eThekwini Municipality's recent proposal to introduce a tourism levy has sparked significant opposition from local tourism bodies, highlighting the challenges and complexities facing Durban's tourism sector. The city's Economic Development and Planning Committee recently recommended that Durban Tourism initiate a comprehensive feasibility study on the potential introduction of a tourism levy in eThekwini. According to the City, the purpose of the study is to explore the practicality, structure, and potential impact of such a levy before any final decisions are made. "The proposed levy aims to establish a dedicated, ring-fenced funding mechanism to support the marketing of Durban as a tourism destination of choice both locally and internationally, and to drive tourism-related innovations and initiatives. "The ultimate goal is to reduce reliance on municipal funding and improve long-term financial sustainability within the tourism sector," read a statement issued by the municipality. Durban Tourism has been tasked to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including the national Department of Tourism, South African Tourism, local tourism boards, industry associations, community organisations and the private sector. Following this it is expected to present its findings and recommendations to the committee. Brett Tungay, chairperson of the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA) for the east coast, said they were opposed to the idea. He said most hotels were already paying a 1% Tourism Marketing SA (TOMSA) levy, for travel services in South Africa. "We will definitely not allow this to happen. The City has not engaged with the private sector in a meaningful discord yet regarding this. KwaZulu-Natal as a tourism destination is yet to recover to post Covid levels. We are still 20% down on pre-Covid levels. The foreign numbers into the province is still about 80% down. It is not as if we are in a flourishing tourism environment that has excess profit that we can throw at the city," he said. Tungay said any new levy would have to be borne by the properties. "It will affect the bottom line of all the hotels and resorts in Durban. In an environment where we are trying to grow and trying to encourage employment this is not what we need. "I would rather see the City improve on its water billing and rates collections," said Tungay. He said cities around the world that charge a tourism levy have functioning municipalities. "The City needs to look at how they can tighten the belt first and get everything running properly. They must realise that tourism marketing benefits the entire city," he said. 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 Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, CEO of the Tourism Business Council, also cited the TOMSA levy, adding that imposing another levy would be unfair on the sector. "There is no other sector that has a levy, so it will be unfair to impose a levy on tourism when you don't impose a levy on anybody else who operates in any different way within the municipality. "We all pay rates and taxes and other dues, why introduce something that is targeted to one sector and not targeted to others? Why impose something to say it's the basis for destination marketing?" questioned Tshivhengwa. He said there were many municipalities with functioning tourism bodies. "What the municipality needs to do is fund destination marketing and make sure they realise the benefits. If they fund it, the return on investment is far greater. "There are many other models out there that are very successful. Cape Town Tourism has a different model where it's not necessarily funded directly through the municipality," he said. Tshivhengwa said the municipality needed to fix its infrastructure to attract tourists. "Fix the beaches and make sure there is no sewage going into the beaches and ensure it's a safe place. There will then be more economic activity and those in the tourism sector will derive benefits and be able to create employment. But to say you are going to impose a statutory levy and not do it for any other industry, is unfair. "Durban has not been getting the lion's share of tourists and the problem is infrastructure. You can go and market all you want, but if the beaches and water is not clean and we don't deal with issues of safety and security, no one is going to go there," he said. SUNDAY TRIBUNE
IOL News
11-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Innovative strategies for economic growth in Durban and KZN
The KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development Council met on Friday to share insights and innovative strategies to revitalise and strengthen the province's economy. Image: Pixabay The KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development Council met on Friday to share insights and innovative strategies to revitalise and strengthen the province's economy. This strategic forum convenes key stakeholders from government, business, labour, academia, and civil society, united by a shared commitment to advancing the province's economic development, explained Sinenhlanhla Mthembu, spokesperson for the KZN Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) department. This meeting is part of the provincial government's broader drive to promote a collaborative, inclusive, and sustainable approach to economic growth. Thamsanqa Ntuli, the premier of KZN, presided over the full sitting to provide strategic guidance focused on unlocking economic opportunities, fostering job creation, enhancing public safety, and cultivating an environment conducive to investment. 'Economic development remains central to KwaZulu-Natal's broader developmental agenda, which is anchored on three core priorities: driving inclusive growth and creating jobs, reducing poverty and addressing the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state,' Mthembu said. The Economic Council serves as a critical platform for stakeholders to engage constructively, share insights, and co-create innovative strategies to revitalise and strengthen the province's economy. ETHEKWINI Meanwhile, the eThekwini Municipality Economic Development and Planning Committee convened on Thursday, where several key developmental reports were tabled and supported, pending final approval by the Executive Committee and Full Council. These initiatives are aligned with the city's long-term vision to stimulate investment, create employment, and enhance infrastructure across the municipality. According to a statement issued by the municipality, the committee has recommended that Durban Tourism initiate a comprehensive feasibility study on the potential introduction of a tourism levy in eThekwini. 'Durban Tourism will be expected to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including the national Department of Tourism, South African Tourism, local tourism boards, industry associations, community organisations and the private sector,' stated the municipality. Following the consultation process and completion of the feasibility study, Durban Tourism is expected to present its findings and recommendations to the committee. To ensure that Durban remains competitive, investor-friendly, and forward-looking, eThekwini Municipality implemented several initiatives, such as the Economic Development Incentive Policy, which offers rebates and incentives to attract and retain investment. The municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development through the implementation of the Energy Efficiency in Public Buildings and Infrastructure Programme. As a sub-project of the national Energy Efficiency and Demand-Side Management initiative, the programme aims to reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and promote low-carbon technologies across municipal facilities. The committee also noted a report from the Climate Change Sub Directorate during a meeting on Thursday. This initiative not only supports eThekwini's climate goals but also contributes to job creation, skills development, and long-term cost savings. The municipality considers the programme a replicable model for future energy efficiency rollouts across its property portfolio, reinforcing Durban's position as a leader in sustainable urban development. [email protected]
IOL News
22-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
New culinary gem wins prestigious eThekwini Municipality award
From right: Mayor Cyril Xaba handing over a trophy to Mushroom Lounge owner, Sibongiseni Mbambo (in maroon suit) with (from left) Kwezi Ndlovu-Mbambo, business mogul Vivian Reddy and eThekwini Municipality councillor Thembo Ntuli. Image: supplied The Durban owned eatery, Mushroom Lounge scooped the prestigious Best Durban Restaurant Award during the 4th annual Durban Tourism Business Awards event in Durban recently. The eatery, owned by Sibongiseni Mageza Mbambo, was announced as overall winner in the restaurants category. Speaking after the win, Mbambo said he was shocked when he was called on stage as he did not expect to win any award with the restaurant only established a year ago. 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 'We wish to thank our customers for their support and for believing in our food. Many people questioned me on whether I did good marketing research when I opened this place, (which specialises) in traditional food. "Today I am proud of my decision. Tourists from all over the country come to enjoy the traditional food here,' said Mbambo. He said he was also thankful for the support of the eThekwini Municipality and Durban Tourism as well the blessings he received from King Misuzulu kaZwelithini who visited the restaurant last year. The eatery was established in April last year and was recently invited to showcase African cuisine in New York. Speaking at the event, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba congratulated the Mushroom Lounge and winners in various categories. The mayor said there were 161 entries for the awards and the Durban Tourism Business Awards were created to honour innovation and excellence within the tourism sector, providing a platform to showcase Durban as the best tourism and investment destination. "After an extensive adjudication process, the finalists were selected ranging from hotels and crafters to tour operators and rickshaw pullers. The City is pleased with the interest shown by tourism product owners in the awards, demonstrated by the increase in submissions in certain categories,' said Xaba.
IOL News
20-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Durban Tourism celebrates excellence at annual business awards
Durban's mayor Cyril Xaba (far right), with some city officials and awards recipients. at the Durban Tourism Business Awards Ayanada Mdluli (left), the Daily News editor was also present at the 4th annual Durban Tourism Business Awards. This week, the vibrant and bustling city of Durban played host to the 4th annual Durban Tourism Business Awards, held at the prestigious Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. The awards ceremony served as a beacon of recognition, celebrating innovation and excellence within South Africa's thriving tourism sector. The tourism industry, a cornerstone of the local economy, has historically faced numerous challenges, particularly in the wake of the global pandemic. However, the resilience and ingenuity displayed by various stakeholders in the sector have been remarkable. This year's event brought together key figures from various sectors, all eager to applaud the trailblazers who have pushed boundaries and set new standards. Organised by Durban Tourism, the awards aimed not only to honour achievements but also to inspire ongoing development and sustainability. DAILY NEWS
IOL News
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Celebrating Mzansi's finest: BET Africa and Durban Tourism roll out the red carpet for the 2025 BET Awards nominees
Maglera Doe Boy has earned a nomination in the Best New International Act category at the 2025 BET Awards. Image: Instagram. As the countdown begins to the highly anticipated BET Awards 2025, BET Africa is gearing up to spotlight South African excellence with a series of exclusive parties in honour of this year's nominees. Partnering with Durban Tourism, BET Africa is set to celebrate the talents representing Mzansi on the global stage before they depart for the prestigious event in Los Angeles on June 9. International superstars Tyla and DJ Uncle Waffles, both previous nominees, have earned nominations in the Best International Act category. Emerging talents Maglera Doe Boy, TxC and Dlala Thukzin are also making waves with their nominations in the Best New International Act category, showcasing the rich musical landscape of South Africa. The festivities will commence in Durban with an electrifying party at LIV Durban on Thursday, May 22, followed by a celebration in Johannesburg at LIV Sandton on Thursday, May 29. Members of the public are invited to partake in these vibrant gatherings and show their support for the nominees. In addition to the celebrations, BET Africa and Durban Tourism will launch an exciting social media competition, giving two lucky international winners an all-expenses-paid trip to enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours of Durban. Their experiences will be documented in a special 22-minute feature that will air on BET Africa later this year, further showcasing South African culture to the world. 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 ✕ Monde Twala, senior vice president and co-general manager of Paramount Africa and lead of BET International, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. "This exciting partnership with Durban Tourism allows us to honour and spotlight the immense talent coming out of South Africa. The BET Awards celebration parties will highlight cultural pride, artistic excellence, and the vibrant spirit of Durban and South Africa as a whole," he said. Echoing Twala's sentiments, eThekwini city manager Musa Mbhele commented: "This partnership truly highlights Durban's vibrant music scene and cultural richness. "These events offer fantastic opportunities for fans to connect with their favourite artists and for Durban to shine as a hub of world-class entertainment. We look forward to welcoming the international winners to our beautiful city and showcasing all that Durban has to offer." • The BET Awards is set to air live on BET Africa from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Tuesday, June 10, at 2am on BET Africa (DStv channel 129).
