MEC Rev Musa Zondi highlights the role of tourism in KZN's economic growth

KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) Rev Musa Zondi said that tourism month presents an opportunity to reaffirm tourism’s role as a driver of growth, pride, and inclusivity. The MEC was speaking at the Tourism month launch at the Indoniyamanzi township restaurant establishment in Empangeni in Northern KZN on Thursday.

Zondi said that we must recognise the power of rural tourism in shaping inclusive growth. “It is about showcasing our landscapes from the Drakensberg to the Indian Ocean, about telling our stories through heritage and film, and about ensuring that every district in this province benefits from the visitor economy.”

Zondi added that they are planning the relocation of the regional airport in Richards Bay due to the growing number of flights to the region. “We are laying the foundation for easier access from across KwaZulu-Natal and neighbouring SADC countries. This vision for northern Zululand aligns directly with our rising arrival numbers and national growth trajectory, proving that KwaZulu-Natal’s resurgence is being built in every district, urban and rural alike."

Zondi said that KZN continues to make giant strides in tourism as the number of visitors increase. “South Africa welcomed 881 393 tourists in July 2025 – a 26% increase year-on-year. KwaZulu-Natal mirrored this trend with a 13.5% rise in arrivals. At King Shaka International Airport, over 30,120 travellers were processed in one month – a 270% surge compared to last year.”

Zondi added that these figures are living proof that KZN is not merely recovering but accelerating. “Each arrival represents income for families, opportunity for entrepreneurs, and renewed hope for communities. But growth on its own is not enough. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” compels us to ask: what kind of growth do we seek? It is growth that uplifts SMMEs in our townships and villages. Growth that empowers young people to see tourism and film as their industries of choice in the future. Growth that invests in resilience – whether through solar power, water recycling, or waste reduction – so that our sector withstands the shocks of tomorrow.”

Zondi said that industry is already showing the way. “Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (Fedhasa) has reported that Independent lodges and hotels are embracing solar-battery systems and water recycling – marketed as part of the guest experience: “sustainable, uninterrupted stays.”

Zondi added that on our North Coast, Club Med’s new resort will source 60% of food and beverage locally, support 50 small businesses, and create 1 500 indirect jobs. “Already, 120 young South Africans are in training through its partnerships. At The Oyster Box, rooftop bee colonies now provide honey for guests while protecting biodiversity. Food waste reduction and sustainability programmes are embedded in the guest experience.”

Zondi said that Tourism Month is inseparable from Heritage Month. “Our cultural festivals are jewels in our crown. Starting from the beginning of the month, thousands of maidens are participating in the old age traditions that celebrate their purity, a tradition celebrated all over the continent and have put the Zulu culture on the global map.”

Chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZN TAFA), Dr Sibusiso Ndebele said that Tourism remains one of the most powerful forces for growth and transformation in our economy. “Nationally, South Africa welcomed over 5.8 million international visitors between January and July 2025, generating billions in foreign spend and sustaining countless livelihoods.”

Ndebele added that KwaZulu-Natal continues to capture a significant share of this market. “In the first quarter of this year, we welcomed 194 000 international tourists, contributing R1.5 billion in foreign spend, while 1.9 million domestic trips generated a further R6.1 billion for our province. These numbers confirm KwaZulu-Natal’s vital role in South Africa’s tourism landscape.”

Ndebele said that it is also important to note that the majority of  international visitors come from the African continent. “The Stats SA July 2025 report makes it clear that 77.5% of all tourists to South Africa were from neighbouring SADC countries – led by Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho, which together made up three-quarters of that flow. KwaZulu-Natal benefits directly from this market.

Ndebele added that KZN gateways at Golela and Kosi Bay are heavily used by Eswatini and Mozambican travellers, contributing to both our coastal and inland economies, while King Shaka International Airport connects us to regional hubs and long-haul destinations.

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