EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda and eThekwini Deputy Mayor Councillor Zandile Myeni launched the Durban Sizzling Summer Campaign which aims to attract tourists to the City.

THE CITY, in partnership with industry roleplayers, is gearing up for a bumper summer season and are prepared to welcome the expected 950 000 travellers to Durban. EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda unveiled the ‘Durban Sizzling Summer Campaign’ on 7 September which is a robust promotion campaign to attract travellers to the City ahead of the summer season. The destination promotion campaign includes roadshows taking place across the country where Durban Tourism will showcase the City’s many attractions and holidays packages.

The destination marketing will be extended to national broadcasters through visuals. Mayor Kaunda said the City is continuing with rebuilding the local tourism industry. He said it was poignant that the launch was held at Silokazis which overlooks the majestic Inanda Dam, which is one of the City’s hidden gems. “Our efforts of rebuilding the tourism sector after the floods are paying off and has contributed immensely to the increase of visitors to Durban,” he said. 

 Mayor Kaunda said this year alone Durban has seen an influx of 123 364 international passengers at King Shaka International Airport, marking a 126 percent increase from the previous year. Domestic arrivals have also seen a boost, with a 22 percent rise, amounting to 2.1 million passengers, he added. “The occupancy expected this year is around 62 percent compared to the 57 percent achieved last year. Furthermore, we are expecting a direct spend of R2.1 billion and R5.2 billion contribution to the GDP as well 10 000 jobs to be created.”

To ensure the safety of visitors during the summer holidays, the City continues to beef up law enforcement personnel at tourism sites. Regarding recreational facilities, Mayor Kaunda said swimming pools located along the Central Beachfront are currently receiving a facelift and will be ready in time for the summer season. “Construction of the Laguna Paddling Pool is complete, and we are finalising plans to reopen it soon.” For more go to www.visitdurban.travel