Heritage Day long weekend gives eThekwini tourism sector a boost

With an influx of 82 000 visitors, the City’s tourism sector received a much-needed economic boost after the recent Heritage Day long weekend.

The City’s spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela said there was a 60% average occupancy rate in Durban from September 24 to September 27.

“Also, 95% of accommodation was fully booked on Friday and Saturday night. This translates to 82 000 visitor arrivals,” said Mayisela.

He noted that the direct spend over the long weekend was R107m.

This was reported to have contributed R265m to the Gross Domestic Product and helped created approximately 570 temporary and long-term job opportunities.

The eThekwini Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda said he was confident the summer season would yield greater results.

“This gives us hope that the industry is recovering. It is a sure sign that we are beginning to return to some sense of normalcy in the tourism sector after many challenges, including Covid-19 and the civil unrest in July. As we head towards the festive season, we are reviving the intra-provincial activations and will provide entertainment along the beachfront during the school holidays,” said Kaunda.

One of the city’s current destination promotion initiatives is the My City, My Heritage campaign that involves activities rolled out in September.

“The campaign showcases key tourist attractions in the city and encourages locals to rediscover their own city,” said the City’s spokesperson.