KZN tourism businesses in financial distress as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, will receive welcome support through a R20-million provincial relief fund.

The fund, which will assist at least 400 businesses, will accept applications until 15 April.

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Successful businesses applicants will each receive R50 000, while tourist guides stand to receive R4 500 each. KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Ravi Pillay, said priority will be given to enterprises that could not benefit from any other government Covid funding schemes.

‘We have recognised the need to intervene to save these businesses from total collapse. We also hope that this scheme will see jobs being saved,’ said Pillay.

Businesses eligible for financial support include accommodation establishments, hospitality, travel and related services, as well as businesses which have been operating for a minimum of one year.

‘At least 70% of beneficiaries will be enterprises that are black owned, 50% will be enterprises that are women owned, 30% will be youth owned and 4% will be enterprises that have met a target of at least 2% employment of people with disabilities,’ the MEC said.

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