Entries are officially open for the KZN Top Business Awards 2026, inviting businesses across KwaZulu-Natal to step forward and showcase their achievements, innovation, and impact. This annual platform continues to recognise the organisations that are not only achieving business success, but are also contributing meaningfully to economic growth, job creation, and community development across the province. The awards remain one of the most respected business recognition initiatives in KZN, highlighting excellence across a wide range of industries and sectors. Celebrating the Best of KZN Business The KZN Top Business Awards are designed to celebrate businesses that demonstrate leadership, resilience, innovation, and long-term impact. From emerging SMEs to established corporate leaders, the programme provides a platform for organisations to be recognised for their contribution to building a stronger and more competitive provincial economy. The focus is not only on financial performance, but also on transformation, sustainability, and meaningful community engagement. 2026 Award Categories The awards cover a diverse range of categories that reflect the strength and diversity of KwaZulu-Natal’s business environment: Business Excellence & Sector Performance Standard Bank Client of the Year – SME Standard Bank Client of the Year – Large Enterprise Business, Financial & Educational Sector Franchising Sector Industry Leadership Manufacturing Sector Transport & Logistics Sector Agricultural & Agro-Processing Sector Family-Owned & Managed Businesses Impact & Transformation Community Upliftment & Improvement Renewable Efficiency & Green Initiatives Employee Wellness Award Partnership Award Special Recognition Awards Business Leader of the Year Top Business Woman KZN Top Brand (public vote) These categories ensure that excellence is recognised across all levels of business, from operational success to leadership and social impact. Why Enter the Awards Participation in the KZN Top Business Awards provides businesses with a powerful platform to strengthen their reputation and visibility. Key benefits include: Increased brand recognition across KwaZulu-Natal Enhanced credibility within your industry Exposure to a network of influential business leaders Recognition for your team’s achievements and contribution Positioning as a leader in your sector The awards also serve as a benchmark for excellence, encouraging businesses to continue innovating and growing in an increasingly competitive environment. Key Dates Entries Open: Now Entries Close: 12 June 2026 Awards Ceremony: 16 July 2026 Businesses are encouraged to submit their entries early to ensure full consideration. A Platform for Growth and Recognition The KZN Top Business Awards continue to play a vital role in highlighting the strength and potential of KwaZulu-Natal’s business community. By recognising organisations that lead with purpose and performance, the awards contribute to building a more connected, innovative, and resilient provincial economy. Enter Today Businesses that are growing, innovating, and making an impact are encouraged to enter and take their place among KwaZulu-Natal’s leading organisations. The KZN Top Business Awards 2026 offer the opportunity to be recognised, celebrated, and positioned among the province’s top-performing businesses. KZN Top Business Awards 2026 – Entries Now Open to Celebrate Business Excellence in KwaZulu-Natal

By: Fathima Mathen | Marketing Manager for GARDENA South Africa We're a couple of weeks into autumn and, while the air hasn't cooled much during the day yet, it soon will. And with that usually comes the temptation to retreat indoors, which means the garden could slip down your priority list. But stepping back now could cost you later, according to Fathima Mathen, Marketing Manager for GARDENA South Africa. “Autumn provides a critical window for setting your garden up to thrive in summer,” she says. “It’s when the groundwork is laid, and a well-timed clean-up, smarter watering and starting your compost heap now will make a real difference come summer.” She shares five common mistakes that are easy to make in autumn but quietly come back to bite when it matters most: 1. Letting leaves pile up In many parts of South Africa, particularly the Highveld, Cape Winelands and KZN Midlands, autumn leaf drop is significant. Allowing leaves to build up can suffocate your lawn and create the perfect conditions for pests and disease, blocking sunlight, trapping moisture, and weakening grass before winter dormancy even begins. What to do instead: Clear leaves regularly using a rake or tools like the GARDENA Leaf and Lawn Collector, then repurpose them as mulch or add them to your compost heap rather than throwing them away. 2. Getting composting wrong Autumn through early spring (April–September) is prime composting season, but many gardeners get the balance wrong when building a compost pile. Heaps made of mostly dry leaves without enough green material slow decomposition, while skipping composting altogether means missing out on organic matter that enriches garden soil before planting season. What to do instead: Mix dry leaves with green garden waste or kitchen scraps and turn your compost regularly. GARDENA tools like the NatureLine Spade or Spading Fork to help make the job easier. 3. Overwatering Many gardeners keep watering out of habit, while others cut back too sharply, leaving plants struggling. In South Africa, where water conservation is a priority and rainfall can be unpredictable, getting that balance right matters. Too much water in autumn can lead to root rot, fungal issues and unnecessary waste, while too little can leave plants stressed and unable to build strength ahead of winter. What to do instead: Scale back gradually rather than stopping suddenly and always check soil moisture first. Tools like GARDENA Water Controls, sprinklers or a Micro Drip System can help you water more precisely and avoid overdoing it. 4. Neglecting your tools Autumn is a demanding season for garden tools, pruning, cutting back, and clearing all need doing. It’s also when they’re often neglected. Dirty or blunt tools don’t just make the job harder. They can damage plants, spread disease and set back growth in spring. What to do instead: Clean your tools after use, keep blades sharp and store them properly. And if something needs more than a quick clean or sharpen, GARDENA users can contact a local agent for support. 5. Neglecting your autumn clean-up Perhaps the biggest mistake is doing nothing at all. An autumn clean-up isn’t about perfection. It’s about preparation. Removing dead material, cutting back, and tidying beds help prevent pests, support healthy regrowth and set your garden up for spring. What to do instead: Don't try to tackle it all at once; little and often is the key. Clear leaves, remove debris and cut back where needed as you go. GARDENA tools like the secateurs and combisystem range will help to get the job done. “A well-prepared autumn garden largely takes care of itself through winter and thrives come summer," adds Mathen. "It's just about doing the right work at the right time. Get these five things in place now, and winter becomes the easy season it's supposed to be,” she concludes. And with South African summers made for outdoor living, a garden worth showing off starts with what you do this autumn. GARDENA Tools

On March 26th, Imperial Armour, a leading manufacturer of body armour, was proudly represented at the Armscor Supplier Information Day in Johannesburg. The event served as a powerful platform for industry leaders to connect and chart a course for the future of South African defence. Empowering the Next Generation CEO Emily Elliott joined a vital panel discussion hosted in collaboration with WIDSA (Women in Defence of South Africa) and AMD (South African Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industries Association). The session focused on: Breaking Barriers: Identifying and removing obstacles to entry within the manufacturing and defence sectors. Youth & Women Empowerment: Creating actionable pathways for the next generation of female and young leaders. Industry Inclusivity: Ensuring the sector evolves to reflect a more diverse and innovative workforce. A Vision for the Future The day was marked by high-level engagement and a shared sense of purpose. While it was a privilege for the Imperial Armour team to engage with the Minister of Defence and the Director General, the true highlight was the energy on the floor. Surrounded by visionary leaders and the inspiring faces of the industry’s future, Imperial Armour remains committed to fostering the passion and dedication witnessed throughout the event. Seeing the drive of new suppliers and young professionals reinforces the company’s mission to not only protect lives through manufacturing but to strengthen the industry from the ground up. Driving Progress at the Armscor Supplier Information Day

Durban, prepare to trade your snooze button for running shoes — the 2026 Pick n Pay Durban Sunrise Run returns on Saturday, 26 September, and it’s bringing more gees than your first cup of coffee! This beloved event hits it’s 6 annual race and offers runners from around South Africa and amazing opportunity to run along it’s fast flat Durban course in either a 10km, 21km or Marathon Race. This means that there is a distance for everyone… from fitness freaks, speedsters to enthusiastic explorers of exciting hydration stations. This exciting event has had a massive glow-up in 2026, and there are 7 exciting changes guaranteed to get your legs moving! First up there’s now an exciting 42km marathon. This epic 2 lap race will give runners the ideal platform to launch their 2027 Comrades Marathon campaign. Secondly, we welcome our amazing new title sponsor, Pick n Pay, who will be bringing even more flavour to the festivities, as well as an awesome 2000 goodie bags for the Runners! Runners will start at the stunning new race start venue, the Durban Beachfront Amphitheatre, next to the skate park, this will set the tone for an unforgettable morning. Next up… the 2026 event is also an Official qualifier for the Comrades Marathon 2027 100th year edition — so your sunrise jog just got seriously meaningful and it’s the perfect race to put you inline for the win! Expect improved race routes (fewer excuses, more views), and smooth pre-race Registration and race pack collection at the Southern Sun Garden Court on Friday, 25 September. No chaos, no stress — just runners, race packs, and nervous excitement. And if that’s not enough, it’s all happening over the Heritage Day long weekend, meaning one epic run followed by an even better LONG weekend vibe! But wait… there’s more! The event is strictly limited to 5000 runners, so if you’re thinking “I’ll enter later,” don’t, as the event will sell out out. Take advantage of the early bird special until 1 June and secure your spot before you have to pay more. And for the first 2000 entries, we’re handing out something special — a super cool Pick n Pay goodie bag plus a custom-designed pair of race socks. Yes, socks. Not just any socks — the kind that make you run faster… or at least you think you running faster! So whether you’re chasing a PB, a Comrades Marathon qualification, a sunrise selfie, or just a good excuse for a post-run breakfast, the 2026 Pick n Pay Durban Sunrise Run is calling. Lace up, show up, and rise up — because Durban doesn’t wait for sleepy runners. Enter here: Entry Ninja: https://entry.bactive.com/ Webtickets: https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1593294237 Event Timing: https://www.eventtiming.info/events.php?page=2 IMPORTANT 2026 RACE INFORMATION: NEW DATE: 26th September – Saturday race NEW Start venue: Amphitheatre / Durban Beachfront Title Sponsor – Pick n Pay Durban Sunrise Run. Race distances: 10km / 21km and NEW 42km (2 laps) Comrades Marathon Qualifier for 2027 (100th Running of the Comrades Marathon) Registration Venue: Southern Sun Garden Court, Snell Parade, FRIDAY 25th September: 10am to 5pm Race Day Registration at the Race start: 5:30am to 6:30am Start Times: 42km @ 6am / 21km @ 6:30am / 10km @ 6:40am Prize Giving for all events at 10am on the main stage First 2000 Entries get a PICK n PAY Goodie bag and a pair of Custom Race SOX DHS Old Boys is the HOST Club in partnership with B-Active Events Online entries with Event Timing & Entry Ninja, Webtickets and Pick n Pay Stores. It is a long weekend – Heritage Day weekend. R25 000 Price money Durban, prepare to trade your snooze button for running shoes — the 2026 Pick n Pay Durban Sunrise Run

“Born in the Republic of South Africa” is more than a slogan—it’s a statement of identity, resilience, and commitment. For Bell Equipment, it reflects decades of engineering excellence rooted firmly in South African soil, designed to serve the unique and demanding conditions of the local agricultural and forestry industries. From the sugarcane fields to rugged forestry environments, Bell machines have become a familiar and trusted presence. Engineered with a deep understanding of African terrain, climate, and operational challenges, these machines are built not just to perform—but to endure. The bold yellow equipment stands out not only visually, but also in its reliability and efficiency in the field. At the heart of Bell Equipment’s philosophy is a strong belief in local growth. As highlighted by Group CEO Ashley Bell, the company’s focus extends beyond machinery. It is about contributing to the South African economy, supporting local businesses, and creating meaningful employment opportunities. This approach positions Bell not only as a manufacturer, but as a key partner in national development. The imagery of powerful tractors and loaders moving through dense crops tells a story of productivity and progress. These machines are designed to handle heavy loads, optimize workflow, and reduce operational downtime—key factors for farmers and contractors working in competitive and often unpredictable environments. But what truly sets Bell Equipment apart is its commitment to support. The promise of “Strong Reliable Machines, Strong Reliable Support” is not just marketing—it’s a reflection of an extensive service network and a customer-first approach that ensures clients are never left without assistance when it matters most. In a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape, where efficiency and sustainability are becoming increasingly critical, locally developed solutions are more valuable than ever. Bell Equipment continues to lead by example, proving that world-class innovation can thrive right here at home. 📞 Contact Details For more information, product enquiries, or to speak with a specialist: Bell Equipment South Africa Head Office: Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Tel: +27 (0)35 907 9000 Website: www.bellequipment.com Email: info@bellequipment.com

An elegant celebration of women, purpose, and connection is set to take place this August at the iconic Radisson Blu Durban Umhlanga. Titled Boldly Beautiful, this high tea event promises far more than fine refreshments—it’s a curated experience designed to uplift, inspire, and empower women from all walks of life. Scheduled for 9 August 2026, in celebration of Women’s Day, the event invites guests into a sophisticated setting where style meets substance. With a timeless black-and-white dress code, attendees can expect an atmosphere of refined elegance, perfectly complementing the day’s meaningful focus on leadership, inspiration, and personal growth. From the moment guests arrive at the 4th-floor conference hall, they’ll be immersed in a dynamic program that blends leisure with impact. The experience includes inspirational speakers, engaging entertainment, a fashion show, and curated pop-up experiences—all thoughtfully designed to spark conversation and connection. Whether attending for networking or personal enrichment, guests will find value in every moment. A standout feature of Boldly Beautiful is its commitment to giving back. Five percent of all ticket sales will be donated to Sahara Shelter, supporting meaningful change and extending the event’s impact beyond the venue. At R895 per person, attendees will also enjoy a luxurious high tea service, a gift bag, and the chance to win exciting prizes throughout the day. It’s a space where ambition meets elegance—where women are not only celebrated but encouraged to step fully into their power. More than just an event, Boldly Beautiful is a movement—one that honors the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women. Boldly Beautiful: A High Tea Celebration of Women Who Lead, Inspire, and Uplift

By: Dylan Naidoo If there is one thing that I notice about KZN, it is definitely how much we care in empowering and uplifting our KZN based businesses, and the 28th Durban Business Fair (DBF) is no exception to this. Held by the prestigious Durban Exhibition Centre, KZN Top Business journalists attended the business fair that showcased these amazing businesses. From retail to banking, education to culture, the event not only highlighted KZN business, but celebrated them to a whole new degree. Upon arrival, we were given quite the dancing performance before we would be at the forefront of when the ribbon was cut, opening the event to the public. With loud applause, foggy smoke and launched confetti, the event was officially opened, and we were welcomed with a complimentary handshake and recyclable carry bag, as our journey inside the event began. I was quite surprised to see the high turn-out of businesses attending the event. There was a slew of stalls scattered around filled with enthusiastic business leaders, radio presenters, and representatives for larger businesses. My initial impression of the fair was that it felt like a more high-profile version of the flea markets I used to visit as a kid and still regularly do, and that's a good thing. That initial impression with a potential customer, engaging in conversation, and really trying to get an idea of the customer’s needs is essential for a business, whether it be small or large, and the Durban Business Fair (DBF) is a clear showcase of this. Additionally, business entrepreneurs gave us insight on their products. I also enjoyed the way that the food products were presented. Minnies, a brand focused on sauces and condiments, had chips with some of the sauces in small bowls, allowing for people to freely try out their sauces before purchasing them, which I found quite interesting. As previously mentioned, there was also a row of well-recognised radio stations. From KZN fan favourites East Coast Radio and Gagasi FM, to other well-known stations like Highway FM, who performed coverage of the business fair. One thing that stood out to us media representatives was our recognition in the event. In true fashion, business owners were quite excited to showcase their products to us journalists, excitedly explaining what their products do or what services they offer. It is a surreal feeling that is hard to describe, but meeting such enthusiastic entrepreneurs really uplifts the spirits of the event. The enthusiasm reminds me of an article written in one of the Business Sense publications, by marketing expert Terry Flack, that discusses that no matter what business it is, you will always have to be in the marketing sector. To me, this was clearly shown at the DBF, as whether it was an entrepreneur or a sales representative, they had to market their product to us, and they had to be careful with what they say to us. To read more on Terry’s article, I’ll link it below. So, the 28th Durban Business Fair, a platform that allowed small, medium and large scale KZN businesses and companies to be on display, highlighted the significance of not only the businesses, but also KZN as a hotspot for both tourism and business operations. Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams | Minister of Small Business Development of South Africa joined by Thembo Ntuli | Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Image Source: Gagasi FM | https://www.instagram.com/p/DXwO8dstpYK/?__d=1%3Futm_source%3Dig_embedzakkayaelement

In a world where meaningful connection and compassion matter more than ever, events that bring people together for a cause stand out as truly powerful. The upcoming Whispers of Hope luncheon is one such occasion—an inspiring gathering dedicated to celebrating resilience, raising awareness, and supporting the fight against breast cancer. Hosted by Radisson Blu Durban Umhlanga in collaboration with PinkDrive, this elegant event promises more than just a refined social experience. It’s a moment to unite for a shared purpose: honoring strength, fostering hope, and building a supportive community. Set to take place on 24 October 2026 at 11:00, the luncheon invites guests to indulge in a thoughtfully curated high tea experience within the hotel’s sophisticated conference venue. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the theme “Bows and Pearls,” adding a touch of grace and symbolism to the occasion. But beyond the elegance lies a deeper mission. Ten percent of all ticket sales will be donated to PinkDrive, an organization known for its impactful work in providing mobile breast cancer screening and education across South Africa. This contribution helps extend vital services to communities that need them most, reinforcing the importance of early detection and awareness. Guests can look forward to an engaging program that includes motivational speakers, entertainment, networking opportunities, and even a live auction—all designed to inspire and uplift. From welcome drinks to curated gift bags, every detail has been carefully considered to create a memorable and meaningful experience. The event also aligns with the global efforts of the Estée Lauder Companies Breast Cancer Campaign, further amplifying its message of hope and solidarity. Whispers of Hope is more than just a luncheon—it’s a reminder that through unity, awareness, and action, we can make a difference. Whether attending to show support, connect with like-minded individuals, or simply be part of something meaningful, every guest contributes to a larger movement of care and change. As the pink ribbon continues to symbolize courage and resilience worldwide, this event stands as a heartfelt tribute to those affected by breast cancer—and a call to continue the fight together. Whispers of Hope: A Celebration of Strength, Community, and Purpose

Lighting plays a vital role in shaping the look and feel of any space, and Zebbies Lighting has positioned itself as a trusted destination for stylish, high-quality lighting solutions across South Africa. With a strong focus on both functionality and design, Zebbies Lighting offers a wide range of products suited to residential, commercial, and hospitality environments. From elegant chandeliers and modern pendant lights to practical LED fittings and outdoor solutions, their collections are curated to meet diverse tastes and requirements. Whether you're renovating a home, designing an office, or simply refreshing a room, the right lighting can transform the atmosphere—and Zebbies makes that process both accessible and inspiring. One of the brand’s key strengths lies in its ability to stay aligned with global lighting trends while still catering to local preferences. Customers can expect contemporary designs, energy-efficient technology, and durable materials that ensure long-term value. The growing demand for LED lighting, in particular, has been embraced by Zebbies, offering clients solutions that reduce energy consumption without compromising on style or brightness. Beyond product variety, Zebbies Lighting is also known for its in-store experience. Their showrooms are designed to help customers visualise how different lighting options will look in real-life settings, making it easier to choose fixtures that complement specific spaces. Knowledgeable staff are available to guide customers through selections, offering practical advice on placement, brightness, and design cohesion. As homes and workspaces continue to evolve, lighting remains a key element in creating comfortable, functional, and visually appealing environments. With its commitment to quality, design, and customer experience, Zebbies Lighting continues to illuminate spaces while helping customers bring their vision to life. Contact Zebbies Lighting: Website: www.zebbies.com Phone: 031 566 5680 Email: info@zebbies.com Visit your nearest Zebbies Lighting showroom nationwide Zebbies Lighting: Illuminating Spaces with Style and Innovation

MEDIA RELEASE – 05/05/2026 AFRISAM BUILDS RESILIENCE WHILE AWAITING STRONGER INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT South Africa’s construction materials sector continues to face significant pressure, but early indicators suggest conditions may gradually improve. In response, AfriSam is focusing on operational resilience, continued investment in its production facilities and strong customer partnerships as the market navigates a slow and uneven recovery. AfriSam Executive Chairman and CEO Eric Diack says the sector’s outlook remains closely linked to the pace of infrastructure investment across the country. In recent years, constrained public spending, rising input costs and shifting demand patterns have created a challenging environment for construction materials producers. “The most important issue for our industry remains the level of infrastructure investment,” Diack says. “There are some encouraging developments, particularly in road infrastructure, which show what can happen when investment begins to gain momentum.” While the market remains subdued, several road infrastructure projects are supporting demand for aggregates and readymix concrete. Work on key routes such as the N3 and N2 in KwaZulu-Natal and the N7 in the Western Cape is contributing to construction activity. AfriSam’s national footprint of quarries and production plants positions the company well to supply these projects. Although current developments represent only a small portion of South Africa’s substantial infrastructure backlog, they highlight the opportunities that could emerge if infrastructure investment accelerates. Diack notes that AfriSam has continued to prioritise upkeep on its production facilities to ensure plants remain in strong operating condition. “Our board has been clear that we cannot compromise on maintaining our plants,” he says. “By continuing to invest, we ensure consistent product quality and remain ready to support customers as construction activity grows.” Regional variations in construction activity are also evident, with the Western Cape showing stronger momentum than other parts of the country. “There is clearly more confidence in the Western Cape at present,” Diack says. “Major developments under way in areas such as the Cape Town city bowl and Granger Bay will ultimately translate into increased cement demand.” Despite these pockets of activity, overall cement volumes remain largely stagnant, notes AfriSam Sales and Marketing Executive Richard Tomes. At the same time, rising input costs continue to place pressure on the sector. Energy costs remain a key concern for cement producers, with electricity representing one of the largest cost pressures for energy-intensive manufacturing processes. “Even when national increases appear moderate, the structure of tariffs often results in higher effective increases for large industrial users,” Diack says. Maintaining strict quality standards remains a non-negotiable priority for AfriSam, Tomes adds, noting that durable infrastructure depends on materials that consistently meet required specifications. Logistics has also become more complex as the deterioration of South Africa’s rail network forces greater reliance on road transport, increasing both costs and supply chain challenges. Drawing on more than 90 years of industry experience, AfriSam continues to build on its technical expertise and operational capabilities. “Our cement business remains at the core of our operations,” says Diack. “When market conditions improve, we will be well positioned to respond.” AFRISAM BUILDS RESILIENCE WHILE AWAITING STRONGER INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT

The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (DMPR) has announced that petrol and diesel prices will increase by between R3.27 and R6.19 from Wednesday. The increase comes alongside government efforts to cushion the blow for consumers through the extension of the R3 decrease in the general fuel levy for petrol with a R3.93 reduction for diesel. The adjusted prices for this month are as follows: Petrol 93 and 95 (ULP & LRP): R3.27 per litre (p/l) increase. Diesel (0.05% sulphur): R6.19 p/l increase. Diesel (0.005% sulphur): R6.19 p/l increase. Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): R4.22 p/l increase Single Maximum National Retail Price for Illuminating Paraffin: R5.63 p/l increase. Maximum Retail Price of LPGas: R5.07 per kg increase in Gauteng and R5.78 per kg increase in the Western Cape “The average Brent Crude oil price increased from 93.67 US Dollars (USD) to 101 USD during the period under review. This is due to the continued tension between the US and Iran, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to other crucial infrastructure which have affected crude oil supply. “The average international product prices followed the increasing trend of crude oil prices. The prices of middle distillates [diesel and paraffin] increased more than petrol prices because of higher demand and reduced supply from the Persian Gulf. These factors led to higher contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by R2.04 per litre, R4.96 per litre and R4.21 per litre, respectively. “The prices of Propane and Butane increased during the period under review due to limited global supply since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz,” the department said. The Rand remained constant against the US Dollar during the period under review, resulting in a “contribution of less than one cent per litre to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and Illuminating Paraffin”. – SAnews.gov.za https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/petrol-and-diesel-increase-wednesday Price of petrol and diesel to increase from Wednesday - KZN Business Sense The "Roving Reporter" Best for short, punchy updates about weekly wins. Chelsea Brand | KZN Top Business Bringing you the hard facts from the corridors of the KwaZulu-Natal economy. Stay Connected: 🌐 www.kzntopbusiness.com ✉️ info@topbusiness.com 📺 Watch the latest Business Sense updates on YouTube #KZNTopBusiness #RovingReporter #SuccessBreedsSuccess #KZNEconomy

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says Africa’s Travel Indaba is a powerful celebration of the continent’s extraordinary potential to drive economic growth through tourism. “This is where travel industry professionals gather, including tour operators, hotels, airlines and tourism boards to showcase products, network, negotiate deals and form partnerships with buyers,” De Lille said on Monday. Speaking at the media launch of Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban this morning, De Lille said President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially open the indaba on Tuesday, 12 May. The indaba will be held from the 12 -13 May in Durban under the theme: “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy”. “[The President's presence] reflects the strategic importance of tourism at the highest level of government and affirms our collective understanding that tourism is not peripheral to economic growth; it is central to it,” she said. De Lille said Africa’s tourism economy is poised for extraordinary growth. “The tourism sector remains one of the continent’s most powerful economic contributors. Through the geographic spread of tourism, the sector creates job opportunities and stimulates investment even in the most remote villages. “Here in South Africa, domestic tourism continues to be the backbone of the sector. Between January and February 2026, total trips grew by 35.6% when compared to the previous year. “Equally important are meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), which continue to contribute immensely towards the range of the country’s tourism offerings.” De Lille said South Africa is world-renowned for hosting events. “Hosting major business events injects billions into the GDP and drives tourism beyond leisure.” The Minister described tourism as a "soft power asset", which has the ability to shape international perception. “Tourism is a gateway sector for investment, influencing investor confidence, country image and new project development. “It is for this reason that the Inaugural Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit, held in September 2025, launched eight bankable projects worth approximately R1 billion, with three of them already securing funding.” De Lille said some recent major investments in the tourism sector include the R24 billion V&A Waterfront expansion. According to Statistics South Africa’s Tourism Satellite Account for South Africa Report, in 2024, the tourism sector accounted for 953 981 direct jobs. This means 1 in 18 workers was directly employed in tourism. Africa’s Travel Indaba is one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and one of the top three ‘must visit’ events of its kind on the global calendar. It showcases the widest variety of Africa's best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. Africa’s Travel Indaba is owned by South African Tourism. According to the organisers of Africa’s Travel Indaba, the indaba has won the award for Africa’s Best Travel and Tourism Show for two years in a row. This award was presented by the Association of World Travel Awards. The indaba takes place as the continent celebrates Africa Month, which commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (the African Union). – SAnews.gov.za https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/africas-travel-indaba-drive-economic-growth