IN an effort to bolster safety and security along the city’s coastline, the eThekwini Municipality Council has welcomed the donation of vehicles, quad bikes and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) from the tourism sector.

The donation, valued at R4.3m, was made by Tourism Marketing South Africa, Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa, and Tourism Business Council of South Africa to strengthen safety along eThekwini’s golden sand beaches.

eThekwini municipality spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said the vehicles and equipment will support the Metro Police Coastal and Tourism Policing Unit in enhancing coastal tourism safety by increasing policing visibility and strengthening their emergency response capacity.

“The approval underscores the Municipality’s commitment to collaborative partnerships that enhance public safety, promote tourism growth, and stimulate the local economy,” said Sisilana.

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“Strengthening safety along the coastline is expected to reinforce investor confidence, improve visitor experiences, and contribute positively to economic recovery and development.”

The resolution to accept the donation was taken at the full council meeting on Thursday, February 26. The contribution arises from the Revitalisation of Tourism in the eThekwini Region under Presidential Workstream 4, dated March 7.

During this workstream, resolutions were adopted to assist the Metro Police Coastal and Tourism Policing Division in bolstering safety measures and ensuring a secure environment for residents and visitors along the City’s coastline.

“Council noted that there are no tangible financial implications for the municipality in accepting the donation,” said Sisilana.

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