Tourism in KZN is set to rise and shine this Easter by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala EASTER 2022 has sparked hope for a massive tourism boom following the termination of the state of disaster and the lifting of most COVID-19 restrictions. Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal is undoubtedly ready to rise and shine. The surge in tourism-related bookings at hotels, selfcatering facilities, game parks, holiday resorts, and airlines is the silver lining around the dark memories of the pandemic. Now more than ever, we are in a period of rebirth and renewal. We can see the green shoots on the horizon. We are witnesses to much greenery all around. Flowers are in full bloom. And there is restlessness and passion among those who yearn to travel to KwaZulu-Natal again, to enjoy the majestic views of the Drakensberg Mountain range, to see the Big Five and other wildlife in HluhluweiMfolozi Park, to go up Sani Pass, to bathe in the warm waters of the beaches on Durban’s Golden Mile and visit the relics of the great battles in our history. Tourism product owners are looking forward to a bumper Easter after sustaining massive losses since the lockdown in March 2020. These losses have affected millions of livelihoods who rely upon a thriving travel and tourism sector, while significantly affecting the global economy and development. But we are optimistic that business is recovering in sectors like travel that suffered greatly during lockdowns and are looking forward to a year of positive growth. As thousands of holidaymakers descend on KwaZulu-Natal this Easter season, KZN’s provincial destination marketing organisation, Tourism KwaZuluNatal, is encouraging holidaymakers and the tourism sector at large to adhere to health and safety protocols and to take advantage of the health benefits of vaccination. As the provincial government, we have a vested interest in ensuring the wellbeing of everyone and a full recovery of the tourism sector. Now that South African Airways, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and Emirates have resumed their direct flights from King Shaka International Airport, this will provide more opportunity for trade, tourism and business travel in the province. The reintroduction of flights by SAA between Durban and Johannesburg will see many inlanders making a quick trip to the KZN coastal resorts where they can breathe the fresh air without having to wear a mask outdoors. The opening of tourism is also seeing a resurgence in sporting activities which also brings in tourists. This year, Africa’s premier horse-racing event, the Durban July, will be a fully live event with a record stake of R5 million.
The Comrades Marathon will also be run later this year after two years of quiet and will see many international visitors arriving in the province. The MICE industry will also add to the leisure activities. Keeping the economy of the province turning will help not only to sustain jobs but to create much-needed jobs especially for women and the youth. While climbing mountains, admiring flora and fauna and sunbathing on the beach are great ways to relax, visitors will discover that KZN is also a haven for arts and crafts which are also popular export products. Immerse yourself in Zulu culture by learning traditional craft skills and creating an original object. The diverse culture of the people of KwaZulu-Natal and their hospitality are equal to none and priceless. Tourism KZN is also getting ready for Africa’s Travel Indaba, one of the top three “must visit” marketing events of its kind on the global calendar which attracts about 7 000 delegates. It showcases the widest variety of Africa’s best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. After a two-year absence, we cannot wait to welcome Africa and the rest of the world to the continent’s premier travel trade expo at the Durban ICC from 2 to 5 May. While Easter will be a period for religious pilgrimages for some; and fun, festivities and feasting for others, we also urge tourists to be safe and responsible and to adhere to the rules of the road to ensure safe travel. Please refrain from drinking and driving, driving recklessly, driving at excessive speeds and texting and driving. We are ready to enforce the law and will take punitive measures against traffic law violators. We continue to call upon the people of KwaZuluNatal to stand up against crime. We implore them to be counted as whistle-blowers against crime. Working together, we can create a safe, peaceful province for the people of KwaZulu-Natal and our visitors. We must do everything to prevent criminals from ruining the experiences of tourists in KwaZulu-Natal. Finally, on behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, we wish to extend a warm embrace to all holidaymakers. We welcome those who will be visiting during this special long weekend of prayer, reunions and vacation. May you enjoy all our special tourism offerings. We hope to see you again and again throughout the year because KZN is poised to meet and exceed all your expectations.
