KwaZulu-Natal is expecting a bumper tourism season these December holidays. Tourism officials project the province’s struggling tourism industry will do reasonably well compared to previous years.
The festive season programme was officially launched in Durban on Thursday
KwaZulu Natal is South Africa’s playground with over 600 km of shoreline offering different experiences and warm waters. It’s one of South Africa’s prime tourist destinations.
But in recent years the numbers of both domestic and international tourists have been decreasing. Many tourists believed to be opting for other provinces.
Safety and security is being prioritised and new shark nets have been placed off-shore.
MEC for Economic Development and Tourism Zihle Zikalala says, “This year we estimate that we will boast about 850 000 domestic tourists. We also believe that we will get more that 150 000 international tourists that will add much needed value to the economy of the province.
In Durban security will be tight especially around the popular promenade.
Ethekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede says, “Security will be key and tight. We have horses, new cars, bikes and recently got new equipment so that we ensure that there are no drownings during the festive seasons.”
Tourism authorities in the province are also encouraging small businesses to use the festive season to make an extra income.
Informal trader Ntombi Ngcobo says, “We expect to do a bit well these holidays. We want to make money to support our children but currently economic situations will prove to be a challenge for us as traders.”
Officials are appealing to holidaymakers to obey the rules of the road to ensure motor accidents are minimised.
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