Development Update
Growing our tourism economy sustainably means supporting local communities and expanding into rural areas. This quarter, we’ve launched several initiatives to upskill youth and integrate rural communities into mainstream tourism.
1. SMME Development and Support
Rural Tourism Capacity Building Programme
We partnered with the National Department of Tourism (NDT) and the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) to launch a Rural Tourism Capacity Building workshop at Margate Hotel on 5 November 2024, training 60 Ugu District tourism SMMEs. This marks the start of a three-year programme aimed at unlocking rural tourism potential, driving economic growth, and promoting sustainable environmental practices. Developed by the department, the Rural Tourism Strategy ensures better coordination and packaging of tourism products for long-term success.
SMME Training
In another partnership with NDT and EDTEA, we hosted a free SMME training on Norms and Standards for Safe Tourism Operations under the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (TSRP). Held at Margate Hotel from 6 to 7 November 2024, the session provided 40 SMMEs with essential guidelines for health compliance and industry best practices. Participants will receive certificates soon.
Enterprise Supply Development Webinar
On 5 December 2024, our local SMMEs joined us for a virtual Enterprise Supply Development Webinar, hosted by South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and NDT. The session tackled key challenges like governance compliance, funding, market access, and growth, with experts sharing actionable strategies to support and develop small businesses.
Tourism Business Compliance Workshop
On 20 November 2024, we partnered with EDTEA to host a Tourism Business Compliance Workshop at Port Shepstone Methodist Church Hall for 40 SMMEs. The session addressed compliance gaps, providing businesses with key insights to ensure they meet regulatory requirements and operate legally.
Tourism Business Inspection
On 22 November 2024, we partnered with EDTEA to conduct a tourism business compliance blitz in Port Shepstone. The operation focused on awareness, enforcement, and inspections to ensure businesses adhere to legal and regulatory standards.
Universal Access Workshop
We joined EDTEA’s virtual SMME Universal Access Workshop on 5 December 2024, focusing on enhancing accessibility in tourism. The session urged operators to design inclusive facilities – like entrances and bathrooms – catering to diverse guest needs, ensuring no one is left out.
Support to Crafters
We foster SMME growth by connecting crafters with shop owners and facilitating agreements like the one between Ugu District Crafters and the South Coaster Shop in Ramsgate. The shop sells locally made products – beaded bags, woodwork, jewellery, and more – online and in-store. To date, we have secured vendor agreements with 18 shops.
Lifeguard Training Programme
Funded by NDT and implemented by SAIMI, EDTEA, and ourselves, the lifeguard training programme ran from 3 to 25 October 2024 at Margate Olympic Swimming Pool and Margate Hotel. Over 50 candidates attended recruitment days, with 20 previously disadvantaged individuals under 35 selected. Fifteen completed lifeguard training, while five earned first aid certificates due to swimming skill limitations.
Tourism and Hospitality Students Enhancement Workshop
In partnership with EDTEA, we hosted a Tourism & Hospitality Enhancement Workshop at Esayidi TVET College on 22 October 22. The programme equipped students with technical and soft skills, updated industry trends, and entrepreneurial resources to boost employability and prepare them for successful careers.
2. Tourism Product Support
KwaXolo Caves Adventures
Construction of the restaurant, coffee shop, and ablutions is underway, with the foundation 95% complete as of 8 November 2024. Fourteen local workers, including women and youth, were hired, alongside a Safety Officer for OHS compliance. The project is 11% complete as of November 2024, but the site remains open to visitors during construction.
New Tourism Establishments
We celebrate two new additions to the KZN South Coast: The Upside-Down House in Melville, featuring its iconic inverted design; and The Notebook Hotel in Umtentweni, offering modern amenities like a coffee shop, conference room, pool, and diverse accommodation options, including disability- and pet-friendly rooms. Both establishments bring unique value to the region’s tourism sector.
3. Stakeholder Relations and Engagements
Ugu District Priority Committee on Rural Safety and Tourism
Date: 12 December 2024
Location: Port Shepstone SAPS
Purpose: Planning for tourism safety during the 2024 festive season.
Local Government Peer Learning Session
Date: 13 to 14 November 2024
Location: St Lucia
Objectives:
- Share tourism development experiences, best practices, and case studies.
- Consult on tourism policies and strategies.
- Strengthen local government technical capacity.
- Align municipal tourism plans with provincial and national frameworks.
Proudly SA & SEDFA Business Forum
Date: 4 December 2024
Location: Wild Coast Sun
Theme: Unpacking the localisation of SMMEs
Umuziwabantu Local Municipality Spatial Development Framework (SDF)
Date: 27 November 2024
Location: Umuziwabantu Council Chambers
Purpose: Stakeholder consultations to inform the development of the SDF.
Consumer Education, Awareness, and Community Engagement Workshop
Date: 12 December 2024
Location: Esibanini Hall, Umzumbe
Purpose: Educate communities on consumer rights and promote public area cleanliness, especially during the peak season.
Stakeholder Engagement and Information Sharing Session
Dates: 15 October 2024 (Ezinqoleni Taxi Rank) & 16 October 2024 (Hibberdene Taxi Rank)
Participants: SCTIE, KZN Liquor Authority, and others
Purpose: Inform local communities about government services and promote the ‘Sunny and Safe’ campaign.