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INTRODUCING TOURISM KZN’S NEW ACTING CEO

TKZN’s newly appoined head shares his thoughts about a whole new approach to tourism in the province

It is time to approach tourism differently in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), to begin a new chapter that will not only foster development but see the province’s many diverse cultures speaking with one voice, says newly appointed Acting Chief Executive of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN), Mr Sibusiso Gumbi. 

Having hit the ground running ahead of the busiest period on the KZN tourism calendar, Mr Gumbi says he is confident that all plans are in place for a smooth transition into the busy summer festive season.

He sees his role as a strategic one that will unite everyone from the province’s unemployed youth, to its leaders and even captains of industry.  “I strongly believe that tourism is at the centre of the economy, of infrastructure development, improving our beaches and our heritage sites. If we can concentrate on these, we will be able to turn things around. KZN has massive tourism potential, yet we seem to be dealing with a lot of negativity. It is time for a new narrative and for us all to join together to be ambassadors for tourism,” he says.

After 28 years in the public sector, Mr Gumbi is confident that the province has the right ideas when it comes to infrastructure, economic development and growth. But the time for interpretation of ideas has passed and the time for implementation has arrived, he believes.

Born and bred in KZN, Mr Gumbi is a family man who says he has a spiritual connection with the beautiful landscape and the mountains of KZN, especially when it comes to the district of uMkhanyakude, the northernmost of the 11 districts in KZN and home to some of its most beautiful tourism spots, including the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi, Ndumu and Mkhuze game reserves, Sodwana Bay, Kosi Bay and Lake Jozini.

His family is part of the Gumbi tribe. Dispossessed of their land during the 1880s, the Gumbis finally had their land returned to them more than 100 years later. It is here that the highly successful community owned Thembe Elephant Park has been established.

It comes as no surprise, then, that Mr Gumbi believes that we have completely underestimated just what can be achieved via tourism in this province.

He grew up in and matriculated in Tongaat and went on to complete both his degree and Honours at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Westville campus before starting work with the provincial Department of Transport in 1996. He was tasked with dealing with one of the biggest challenges of the time – the restructuring of the province’s taxi industry.

“The message was that, despite the many killings in the industry at the time, it remained the backbone of the province’s economy. We had to deal with those issues, restore order and formalize it,” he recalls.

He went on to specialize in policy formulation and integrated planning related to public transport and infrastructure before moving on to the Rand Afrikaans University (RAU) to study transport management. On his return to KZN, Mr Gumbi played a strategic role in the realignment and the integration of public transport, 

administering the subsidisation of buses. In 2012, he was appointed the Department of Transport’s Head of Department, a role that spanned everything from road safety to rail and freight and equipped him for his role as TKZN’s ACEO.

Mr Gumbi points out that tourism and transport are closely entwined. “In every aspect of tourism, you will find an element of transport. To attract travellers to a province, you need to have effective and good road infrastructure. Points of attraction need to be accessible. To achieve that, you have to work hand in hand with the Department of Transport so that, in their development plans, they prioritise roads that are leading to attractions,” he explains.

In 2019, he exited that department to take as HOD for the Department of Community Safety, another role that he feels will be invaluable when it comes to tourism.  Concerns around safety are a major hindrance when trying to attract tourists to KZN and he believes his ability to interact with law enforcement agencies will help achieve quick turnarounds.

From there, Mr Gumbi moved to the Premiers office where the insights into infrastructure challenges that he gained have equipped him for the many infrastructure related challenges that are impacting on the tourism sector at present.

Asked to describe his leadership style, Mr Gumbi says he is sober-minded, calm and fair, a man who believes in leading by example and plays a role much like that of a choir master in encouraging the team at TKZN to fulfil their mandate and achieve its full potential. 

Starting out, he says he is doing a lot of listening and looks forward to steering policy implementation, staff development and adherence to good governance within the organisation.

Beyond that, he says the bigger picture is seeing how tourism can play an important role in job creation, economic recovery and transformation. 

“I’m very open minded about the critical role that tourism has to play in the socio-economic sphere. As a community, KZN needs to understand itself first. Without that, how do you move on and attract others from other provinces and sell the province abroad as well? That’s why I am saying that we need to start internally. Let everyone understand the importance of KZN from a cultural perspective, as a province that is the seat of the Zulu monarchy, as one which has both the beaches and the mountains and is home to the big five.”

On the ground, he says transformation has been slow because there has been little support and capacitation for locals to run successful businesses.

“Transformation is just a concept. What we need to do is to build a base of knowledge so that everyone can play a role in the tourism industry. We need to capacitate, educate and support people. We need to put in place principled and professional implementers and then we will see things change,” he concludes.

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KZN Department of Economic Development & Tourism

KZN tourism recovers with influx of visitors

KZN Edtea spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said the influx of holidaymakers to different parts of the province has ensured the stimulation of other sectors of local economies with jobs created in the process.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs (Edtea) said it continues to receive reports from mayors and tourism stakeholders about clear signs of extraordinary recovery of tourism in the province.

He said they were informed of the congestion at toll gates at the peak of the festive season, saying that there were 2 000 vehicles per hour heading towards KZN.

Sibiya said they are also encouraged by the drastic improvements in terms of accommodation bookings compared to last year.

He said on average they saw an occupancy increase of about 2% from the beginning of December – meaning 63,5% up from 61,1% from 2022.

“Supply of bed nights for the week between Christmas and New Year’s day increased by 4% compared to last year. In addition, we are still receiving enquiries about entertainment activities and accommodation with visitors interested in visiting inland, along our coastline and the townships. The interest generated is a result of hard work by our entities – Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, KZN Sharks Board, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Gaming & Betting and KZN Liquor Authority. Ahead of the festive season, we teamed up with events planners, tourism agencies, associations and municipalities to roll out a line-up of activities throughout the corners of the province,” said Sibiya.

He added: “We must hasten to point out that apart from a reported increase in traffic along the tourism corridors – N3 and N2 – some of our holidaymakers arrived through our regional airports and King Shaka International Airport. At the right time, the Airports Company of SA will present their official stats in terms of the arrivals through King Shaka. Finally, we salute law enforcement agencies who are deployed to ensure visibility and the safety of our visitors. We thank beachgoers for not drinking and swimming. We must sustain the culture of ensuring the cleanliness of our beaches and all our recreational facilities. As we stated in the past, it should be our responsibility to ensure that the next person has quality time. Towards the end of January, our entity – Tourism KwaZulu-Natal will present detailed tourism figures.”

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R1,4 billion boost for KZN recovery

KwaZulu Natal’s tourism sector is on the road to recovery with steadily rising numbers of visitors at game parks, beach resorts and camp sites beating pre-COVID levels recorded in 2019. 

This is according to Acting Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Edtea) Department Head, Fikiswa Pupuma , speaking at the launch of KZN Tourism’s Winter Activation campaign at the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve on Saturday (June 24).  

He said the province anticipated a boost of R1,4 billion to its economy this season.  

Pupuma delivered the address on behalf of Edtea MEC, Siboniso Duma , who could not attend the event. 

“Based on current hotel and B&B bookings, KwaZulu Natal can expect at least 430 821 domestic tourists and 48 842 international tourists to visit during June and July, providing a combined direct spend of over R1,4 billion for the provincial economy,” Pupuma said. 

He said the province anticipated that 70% of the country’s domestic tourists and 60% of its international travellers would visit between mid-June to mid-July. 

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Senior Marketing Manager, Siphelele Luthuli , said the province’s conservation arm had grown its tourist numbers by 65% to exceed pre-COVID levels. The number of visitors to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife facilities increased from almost 40 000 to just over 66 000 in 2022, beating its pre-COVID figure of 56 385.    

Tourism markets 

Luthuli said the region was popular with “sentimental” visitors and with tourists from the Southern African Development Community who usually descended on the province in high numbers in September and November.  

“We have sentimental travellers who are coming because their great, great, great grandfather and grandmother used to come and we want to retain them and make sure the generations keep coming back because, without bums in beds we would not have salaries.” 

However, she said domestic tourists needed to be encouraged to explore the province more. 

“Obviously there are challenges because tourism is viewed as a ‘non-essential’; people would rather visit their relatives than pay a price to travel. We would like to encourage everyone to travel. We offer an affordable, accessible adventure and unique experiences,” said Luthuli. 

Seven million tourists in 2022 

A total of seven million tourists visited KZN during 2022, which translated into direct economic spend of more than R19 billion for the province. 

“Our goal is to continue increasing the number of domestic and international tourists as we rebuild and expand our tourism sector, which will continue to be a key focus area for provincial government,” said Pupuma. 

iSimangaliso Wetland Park Executive Manager for Tourism and Business Development, Jabulani Ngubane , said nature conservation and tourism were contributing to job creation in the region, which had a very high unemployment rate of 42%, of which 41,2% were youth. 

“We have started with commercialisation at iSimangaliso so that we don’t rely on government grants. We have hired the youth to clean up and green the towns.” 

Ngubane said that under the Expanded Public Works Programme, a total of 1 588 young people had been employed to clear alien invasive plants from the region, while positions had also been created for 127 tourism monitors and 130 environmental monitors. 

Pupuma added that the province had also benefited from film tourism, which was on the rise in South Africa. 

“Most recent productions that used KZN as a backdrop are the television series Reyke, The Woman King, a historical epic movie with an all-star cast that was a blockbuster across the globe, and the classic telenovela Shaka iLembe,” said Pupuma. 

KZN Tourism CEO Phindile Makwakwa said the tourism authority was driving its marketing via digital platforms and social media to grow brand awareness and draw tourists to the region. 

Upcoming events on the winter calendar in KZN in July include the Durban Film Festival, the Ballito Pro-surfing contest, the Hollywood Bets Durban July followed by the Dundee July, a traditional rural horse trotting event, and Currie Cup rugby fixtures. 

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Economic Development And Tourism

The Committee on Economic Development and Tourism is a Legislature Committee established in terms of the provision of Rule 172 of the Standing Rules of the Legislature. It is accountable to the Committee of Chairpersons, office of the Chairperson of Committees and the House.

The Committee exists in order to deliver on the following constitutional mandate assigned to the Legislature: 1. Performing oversight over the Office of the Economic Development and Tourism and its use of financial and other resources; 2. Law making; and 3. Involving the public in committee and legislative processes.

The AOP represents the key activities that this committee will undertake in fulfilling its mandate. The priorities listed below fulfill a dual purpose. In certain instances, they form part of the activities undertaken by the committee (e.g. Site Visits). In other instances, they serve as a basis for the committee to prioritise the manner in which it analyses information received the department (e.g. analysis of draft APPs, quarter reports or annual reports).

Revised Afrikaans 2023 Certified KZN Growth Fund Agency Bill 2023 X September 2023

Revised afrikaans 2023 - memorandum on the objects - certified kzn growth fund agency bill 2023 x september 2023, letter to the speaker tabling of bills, legislation - treasury certificate letter kzngft (part 1) - signed, kzn growth fund agency bill 2023 isizulu (sept '23), isizulu - memorandum on the objects of the kzn growth fund agency bill 2023 (sept '23), 2023 certified kzn growth fund agency bill 2023 - 15 september 2023, 2023 - memorandum on the objects - certified kzn growth fund agency bill 2023 - 15 september 2023, 2023 - legal certification - kzn growth fund agency bill 2023 - 15 september 2023, revised afrikaans certified 2023 kzn moses kotane research institute bill 2023 x september 2023 - memorandum on the objects (002), chairperson.

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Hon. P Govender

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  KwaZulu-Natal Events

6 ways to enjoy the magic of autumn in KZN this Easter and beyond

A utumn is an underrated season for travel. It starts with the Easter celebrations as most families are out and about in KwaZulu-Natal.

The beauty of the province is that it has the beach, safaris, the berg and laid-back towns to explore, making it a popular destination for many during Easter and well into Autumn .

KZN is the perfect place for a mini-break or to let down your hair, as the weather is milder in the lead-up to autumn but the vibe is as warm as ever and there are plenty of activities that are guaranteed to keep you entertained.

The kingdom of the Zulu is also an affordable destination to explore and has something to suit every budget.

If you’re looking for ways to enjoy this beautiful province through travel, here are six ways to enjoy an autumn break this Easter and beyond in the province, according to Tourism KwaZulu-Natal.

Redefine your holiday

Stop for a moment and consider what it means to take a holiday. Getaways do not have to be expensive. You can always opt for self-drive or self-catering options and put the idea of jetting off to a five-star resort on pause.

“A holiday should be about having fun and sharing that fun on Instagram, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Having a good time at an unexpected destination still makes good photographs,” said TKZN.

The tourism authority recommended saving for one big ticket activity such as ballooning in the Drakensberg or shark diving off the KZN coast and then do what you never get a chance to do, like spending time beside the pool, walking in the mountains or along the beach and enjoying a braai with the family under a perfect, starlit sky.

Benefit from last-minute deals

Flights might be more expensive booked at the last minute, but accommodation isn’t.

The tourism authority revealed that when bookings fall through, resorts offer specials to fill the spaces and you could benefit from last-minute discounts and “stay for two nights and get one night free” deals.

“Visit www.zulu.org to find some great special offers and discounts that extend from the countryside to the coast.

“Trawl social media to find offers from folks who have been forced to cancel their trips but want to offer them to others just to cover expenses,” they said.

Do the maths

TKZN said many resorts offer interesting add-ons to entice guests. A quick look at the deals on www.zulu.org will show how resorts throw in free game drives, both dinner and breakfast, and even spa treatments which would ordinarily have guests out of pocket but get allocated to the accommodation budget instead.

“Granny Mouse Country House, for example, includes a free spa treatment plus a gourmet wine-tasting and six bottles of wine,” highlighted the tourism authority.

Rethink your destination

According to the KZN travel aficionados, taking up last-minute special offers can mean having to settle for places that you wouldn’t ordinarily consider.

“Make that part of the adventure and, chances are, you’ll find hidden gems that you would have never experienced.

“The High Croft Retreat and Lodge near Umzumbe, for example, allows you to relax and unwind in a cozy chalet, soak up the sun in the fairy-tale forest gardens and even recalibrate in its powerful Chakras Labyrinth,” they said.

Stay close to home

Travel costs and budgets mean that far-away destinations might be out of reach ‒ but KZN has one of the most diverse offerings of all.

“A destination that is just a few hours away can have you feeling like you’re in another world – the journey from the city to a Big 5 resort, the top of a mountain or catching waves along the beautiful KZN North Coast could be no more than a few hours away,” said TKZN.

They added that too many travellers head off far and wide and don’t get round to enjoying their own province, when even the smallest trip can launch you into new experiences, cultures, cuisines and communities and give you a whole new take on life.

Avoid the weekends

Its no secret that it is easy to get away for a weekend, but there are great specials to be had if you stick to weekdays.

The tourism authority revealed that Lake Eland, near Oribi Gorge, offers 30% off as a Midweek Special and aptly named Midweek Madness, the Qambathi Mountain Lodge in the Kamberg Valley is also running a midweek special for those planning a getaway to the Drakensberg.

“You may also find other packages that allow a third guest to stay free if two stay over, or even for kiddies to bunk down for nothing with their parents.

“If you are travelling without a family and are not confined to school holidays, then KZN is really your oyster as rates are lower and off-season specials abound,” said TKZN.

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KZN activates disaster teams

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According to the warning from the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the heavy downpours may result in some areas receiving rainfall accumulation of more than 200mm over a 24-hour period, which may lead to flooding of settlements and roads, damage to houses, and the displacement of communities over the extreme south-eastern part of the province.

In a statement issued on Monday, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs said areas that are likely to be affected include eThekwini Metro, Umdoni, Umzumbe and Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipalities.

The department said disaster teams reported that flood damage occurred in Margate town on Sunday night, which was caused by severe thunderstorms.

The department said businesses and public infrastructure, including roads and houses, have been severely damaged.

“No injuries or fatalities have been confirmed at this stage. Our teams are currently conducting an assessment. Updates will be communicated in due course.

“The public is advised to take precautionary measures by moving to safer places and avoid travelling to mitigate risk. These thunderstorms may cause localised damage to settlements, vehicles, livelihood, livestock and power surges due to excessive lightning,” the department said.

The department has also warned the public of the dangers of lightning and advised communities to seek shelter in safe places.

“Public facilities, such as community halls, are open as safe havens for those in need of shelter. Our teams may have to evacuate people should they foresee high risk of danger due to the inclement weather.

“Motorists are strongly advised to avoid travelling during this period, as bridges may become flooded, posing a risk to life,” the department said.

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• 16 Apr 2024

Department Leadership

Mr siboniso duma: mpl.

MEC Mireille Wenger on Western Cape summer tourism season

Over 9 300 jobs supported over western cape summer tourism season to date.

Preliminary figures from the first three months (Dec-Feb) of the four-month peak summer tourism season, indicate the arrival of almost half a million (466 469) international terminal passengers at Cape Town International Airport (Source: ACSA) alone, supported just over 9300 (9329) jobs across the Western Cape, which include direct, indirect, induced and tourism catalytic employment opportunities in the air transport sector.

“We know, based on calculations by the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) tourism, trade and investment promotion agency, Wesgro, that with the arrival of every 100 international terminal passengers, 2 jobs are supported. This means the total number of jobs supported by arrivals at the international terminal alone, is just over 9 300 jobs,” said the Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger.

The Western Cape is a world-class tourism destination, being home to some of the best brandy, wines, food, and olive oil in the world. We also have the second-best beach globally thanks to our rock-hopper penguin friends at the stunning Boulder’s Beach, and with our home base of Cape Town being voted the best city in the world by the Telegraph Travel Awards.

“Guided by our economic action plan, ‘Growth for Jobs’, we are not just setting goals; we are laying down a roadmap to achieve a R1 trillion economy marked by inclusivity, resilience, and diversity. Our ambition is to cultivate an environment ripe for ‘breakout economic growth’, ensuring that the Western Cape not only meets but exceeds expectations in terms of job creation and economic development. Tourism is a key part of this plan and one of our key targets under G4J is to double the number of visitors to our province by 2035,” she continued.

“This excellent news strengthens our resolve to make sure the Western Cape works and grows as a choice destination. This means that just as we continue to work with our partners and stakeholders to attract more visitors, we will work equally hard to remove obstacles to this growth, including addressing the increasingly disastrous South African visa regime,” concluded Minister Wenger.

Media Queries: Georgina Maree Spokesperson for the Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities (Responsible for the Provincial Treasury and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism) Cell: 076 423 7541 Email:  [email protected]

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