Despite a sluggish economy and civil unrest that nearly crippled the province in 2021, the City of uMhlathuze is being praised for it resilience amid a continued influx of investments. This was shared by provincial government leaders, including KZN Premier  Thami Ntuli, at the Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA held at Thembela Venue in Empangeni last week.

The premier cited uMhlathuze as an Industrial, strategic anchor, and the epicentre of boosting tourism investment in KZN. “Before the global pandemic, before our boarders became ineffective and crime became rampant, before looting, KZN was a tourism powerhouse, welcoming over seven million visitors annually and generating tens of billion rands” said Ntuli.

“Our mission of an inclusive developmental state; to grow economy as we uplift the economy, and the heart of this mission sits uMhlathuze.”

Ntuli noted the city’s proximity to the port and game parks, the various economic developments being undertaken, and investment being attracted by the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ).

“This unique integration of industry, nature and community makes uMhlathuze the ideal laboratory for inclusive development.” Ntuli words were echoed by Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Musa Zondi, who said KZN is positioning itself as the engine room of Africa’s tourism economy. “Today’s gathering brings together the most important voices in investment and development. You the investors, financiers and business leaders – are the engine of growth, “ said Zondi.

“Your choices, your capital and your partnership will shape not only the future of tourism in KwaZulu Natal, but the broader trajectory of our economy.” The forum aims to attract investments into Africa’s tourism sector, create partnerships and showcase the continent’s potential. It’s also a platform for investors, developers and government stakeholder to connect, share insights and drive sustainable economic growth in the tourism industry.