Reverend Musa Zondi champions inclusive and sustainable tourism for economic growth in KwaZulu-Natal

As Tourism Month celebrations unfold across the country, Reverend Musa Zondi, the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal, has underscored the significance of sustainable rural tourism for economic growth.

During the launch of Tourism Month in the King Cetshwayo District, Zondi emphasised the need for tourism to be sustainable, inclusive and transformative.

“Tourism must not be confined to cities - it must belong to every community. Growth must uplift township and rural SMMEs, empower women and youth, and invest in resilience so that our sector can withstand tomorrow’s shocks," he stated. 

Zondi highlighted that KwaZulu-Natal's tourism sector is making significant strides, with visitor arrivals increasing, major investments pouring in, and communities throughout the province set to benefit.

“South Africa welcomed 881,393 tourists in July 2025, marking a 26% increase year-on-year. KwaZulu-Natal mirrored this trend with a 13.5% rise in arrivals. At King Shaka International Airport alone, over 30,000 travellers were processed in a single month - a remarkable 270% surge compared to last year.

"These figures are clear evidence that KZN is not merely recovering but accelerating. Each arrival signifies income for families, opportunities for entrepreneurs, and renewed hope for communities,” Zondi remarked.

Cruise tourism in the province is also on the rise, presenting an untapped opportunity not only in Durban but also in the City of Umhlathuze.

According to the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, Richards Bay welcomed 25 cruise liners in the last season, bringing thousands of mostly international guests.

However, stakeholders have noted that many cruise passengers currently travel outside the district for Big 5 safaris and heritage excursions.

Industry leaders stressed the urgent need to develop local tourism products that can retain these cruise visitors within the district.

The authority also noted that plans are underway to enhance cultural experiences, community visits, and coastal adventures, transforming cruise stopovers into deeper local economic opportunities.

Also addressing the event, Dr Joel Sibusiso Ndebele, Board Chairperson of the KZN Tourism and Film Authority, emphasised the importance of coordination across the province.

“Tourism remains one of the most powerful forces for growth and transformation in our economy," he said. 

He noted that in the first quarter of 2025 alone, KZN welcomed 194,000 international tourists and 1.9 million domestic trips, contributing billions to the economy.

“This demonstrates that international tourism is not just entering South Africa broadly; it is flowing directly into KwaZulu-Natal, reinforcing our role as both a gateway and a destination of choice,” said Ndebele.