CREATING entertainment for children, night activities and promoting cultural diversity were among main points discussed at the uMhlathuze Tourism Conference.
The uMhlathuze Community Tourism Organisation (CTO) held its first meeting to discuss ways of developing and promoting tourism in the area.
Business owners, municipal leaders and tourism stakeholders were part of the discussion.
The Head of the Recreation and Tourism Department at the University of Zululand (Unizulu) and CTO chairperson, Prof Thandi Nzama, said the CTO was formed by the municipality to tackle tourism issues.
‘The CTO is independent, owned and managed by the people. It’s role is to facilitate registration and monitor tourism products in the area, as well as to encourage tourists to visit the area and experience what it has to offer. Developing strategies which will benefit the community economically is obviously a major priority ,’ said Nzama.
‘Today we are doing strategic planning and brainstorming the way forward. We have discussed at length ways in which we can promote tourism. These include cruises, helicopter rides and showcasing our museums and nature reserves.’
Other factors raised during the conference were the promotion of water sports across all races, open top bus tours and traditional food.