KZN Tourism Conference: A Roadmap for Future Growth

THE first day of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Tourism Conference, on Saturday, focused on reviving and elevating the province’s tourism sector. The event kicked off at the Coastlands Hotel in Umhlanga.

- SIPHO JACK [e-mail]

“Tourism in Transition: Confronting Challenges, Cultivating Tomorrow, and Connecting Through Collaboration” was the theme the event adopted, which aims not only to address current industry hurdles but also to forge a roadmap for a robust future.

The MEC of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Reverend Musa Zondi, opened proceedings and highlighted the significance of the event in reshaping KZN’s tourism landscape.

Zondi urged stakeholders from the private sector, various government departments, and communities to foster collaboration, as such partnerships are essential for propelling the province’s tourism agenda forward.

“This gathering serves as a platform to unlock KwaZulu-Natal’s extensive tourism potential and focus on creating sustainable livelihoods, which reinforce tourism as a cornerstone of our provincial economy,” Zondi stated.

He highlighted key objectives aimed at enhancing the tourism environment, including innovative financial mechanisms, safety and security at tourist hotspots, and strategic marketing initiatives to increase visibility.