eThekwini Mayo, Mxolisi Kaunda has voiced optimism regarding the reopening of uShaka Marine World after it was forced to close its doors on February 12, due to industrial action.

The closure has left many residents and visitors disappointed as one of Durban’s premier tourist attractions remains inaccessible.

The closure came amid allegations of the employer’s failure to implement a 2016 salary adjustment recommendation leading to a halt in operations at the popular marine theme park.

Kaunda has since been actively engaged in negotiations with all parties involved in finding a resolution to the impasse.

In a recent statement, he expressed his determination to see uShaka Marine World reopened as soon as possible, emphasising the importance of the attraction to the local economy and tourism sector.

He acknowledged the frustration felt by residents and visitors alike but assured them that every effort was being made to reach a favourable outcome for all stakeholders.

“I have been directly involved in bringing together the board members, CEO, management and South African Municipal Workers Union, who are on strike. At any given moment, we are hopeful that they will reach a resolution. We have engaged on a number of issues and they seem to be finding each other on those issues and the offering that uShaka Marine was putting on the table. We are concerned about the entity (uShaka Marine World) which is the biggest in the southern hemisphere. It is a very important asset and we must preserve such an asset, especially from a tourism point of view,” Kaunda stated.