Building a Stronger, Safer, and More Sustainable KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Sector
Yesterday’s stakeholder forum at uShaka Marine World was a powerful reminder that meaningful progress in tourism doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens through collaboration.
Held in the heart of Durban, the workshop convened key stakeholders from across the public and private tourism ecosystem — including Durban Tourism, the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, Durban Metro Police, SATSA, SAACI, FEDHASA, and SATOVITO.
It was a welcome opportunity to foster alignment across different mandates and perspectives — and to move beyond identifying challenges towards developing real, actionable solutions.
The conversation was open, honest, and forward-thinking. We tackled some of the critical issues that continue to hamper KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism recovery and long-term growth — from road infrastructure, to concerns around beach safety, pollution, and the ongoing work to maintain Blue Flag beach status.
Another key focus was the overall branding and positioning of KZN as a tourism destination. Encouragingly, the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority is embarking on a review of the province’s brand, and has committed to involving the private sector from the early strategy stage. This is a significant step forward — not only in driving inclusivity, but also in ensuring that the brand reflects the shared vision of all who have a stake in KZN’s tourism success.
Safety, as ever, was a central theme. Durban Metro Police’s Colonel Kacey Naidoo presented an innovative approach to working more closely with tour operators to improve the safety and experience of both visitors and operators on the ground. It was an example of the kind of creative, cross-sector thinking that this forum was designed to surface.
Importantly, the dialogue didn’t stop at Durban’s city limits. The forum looked at regional, local, and community tourism bodies — LTOs, CTOs, and RTOs — and how they can be better supported and integrated into broader provincial strategies. The strong presence of the KZN Tourism and Film Authority Board was a testament to the importance of these linkages, and to the organisation’s commitment to inclusive, solution-oriented engagement.
“Real progress in tourism happens when we break silos, listen deeply, and commit to shared action. This forum was a vital step in aligning our efforts for a stronger, safer, and more inclusive KwaZulu-Natal.” ~ Hannelie du Toit, SATSA COO
A key outcome of the workshop is a clear roadmap for action. A summary document outlining responsibilities and key focus areas will soon be circulated with all stakeholders, and regular follow-up meetings are planned to ensure accountability and sustained momentum.
This forum was more than a talking shop — it was a step forward. A step towards coordinated action, shared responsibility, and a more resilient and inclusive tourism future for KwaZulu-Natal.
To every delegate who gave their time, energy, and insight — thank you. The path ahead may be complex, but together, we’re laying the foundations for something stronger.
