DURBAN has made history in its efforts to boost beach safety by launching its first-of-its-kind dedicated Coastal and Tourism Division which will be under Durban Metro Police at the beachfront.

Launched by the Tourism Business Council of SA (TBCSA) in partnership with the eThekwini Municipality and the Department of Tourism, the Beach Safety Initiative unveiling coincided with the ongoing Africa’s Travel Indaba.

Municipal spokesperson Mandla Nsele said the TBCSA, funded by the Tourism Marketing SA Collaborative Fund, handed over resources, including a 14-seater kombi, five bakkies, six quad bikes, two trailers, and staff uniforms for use by the division

“The team will be strategically deployed within key tourism hotspots along Durban’s coastline,” said Nsele. “Furthermore, the vehicles are equipped with advanced technology linked to Department of Home Affairs and other critical departments often utilised by tourists.”

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The Beachfront Safety Initiative, driven by the eThekwini Presidential Working Group, seeks to enhance visitor confidence and improve the overall tourism experience by increasing visible policing, co-ordinated safety patrols, emergency response readiness, and stakeholder collaboration.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu emphasised the importance of prioritising tourist safety as South Africa continues to position itself as a globally competitive tourism destination.

This was echoed by the CEO of TBCSA, Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa, who said that the organisation is committed to playing its part in the revitalisation of Durban as a leading tourism destination for both domestic and international travellers.

“A key focus of our discussions has been around safety and security, particularly along the beachfront, because visitor confidence is critical to growing tourism and supporting businesses that rely on the sector,” said Tshivhengwa.

The initiative was also welcomed by eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba who said the collaboration between the City and the TBCSA continues to produce tangible results that directly benefit communities and visitors while demonstrating the value and impact of meaningful partnerships between government and the private sector.

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