KZNEDTEA

KZN ECONOMIC COUNCIL REFLECTS ON POSITIVE EMPLOYMENT GAINS FOR THE PROVINCE The KwaZulu-Natal Economic Council convened its meeting today, 15 May 2026, at Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Durban, bringing together government, labour, civil society and private business leaders to deliberate on key economic priorities facing the province. The meeting, chaired by the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, took place at a significant moment for the province following the recent release of national labour statistics showing that KwaZulu-Natal was the only province in South Africa to record a decline in unemployment during the first quarter of 2026. The positive labour market performance was widely viewed as an encouraging sign of economic resilience and a reflection of ongoing collaborative efforts between government and social partners to stimulate inclusive economic growth and job creation across the province. One of the key presentations during the session was the Quarterly Economic Outlook, delivered by Mr. Meshack Zwane, which provided an overview of the province’s economic trajectory, emerging trends and key sectors contributing to growth and employment. The Council also received Dr. Fikile Qwabe’s presentation on the Economic Impact of Foot and Mouth Disease and its impact on jobs . The discussion highlighted the challenges facing the agricultural sector and the broader implications for food production, exports, rural livelihoods and employment opportunities within the province. The Council reaffirmed the importance of collaborative governance and coordinated planning in driving sustainable economic growth, attracting investmentband creating meaningful employment opportunities for the people of KwaZulu-Natal. Discussions throughout the meeting underscored the province’s commitment to building an inclusive, resilient, and competitive economy capable of responding to both local and global economic challenges. #KZNEDTEA #KZNEconomicCouncil #GovZAUpdateKZN ##KZNInspiringNewHope

... AND THE AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA AWARD WINNERS ARE... 🏆🎉 It was a moment of celebration as entities and individuals were crowned winners at the Africa’s Travel Indaba Awards today, 14 May 2026, at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC in Durban. After an incredible four-day run, the Indaba wraps up by honouring those who have set the bar high - recognising exceptional stands and celebrating leaders driving transformation and innovation in the tourism sector. #KZNEDTEA#ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurbanGovZAUpdatesKZN KZNInspiringNewHope

Lalela bukhoma Dkt.Nkosenye Zulu INhloko yoMnyango wezokuThuthukiswa koMnotho ezokuVakasha kanye nokoNgiwa kweMvelo KwaZulu Natali kuhlelo iWoza nabangani bakho ekhuluma ngokusingathwa kwe Africa’s Travel Indaba.

Tune in to East Coast Radio’s Midday Ease as the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, joins Danny Guselli in conversation, reflecting on Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026. Date: Thursday, 14 May 2026 Time: 13h00

MEC ZONDI HOSTS BUYERS NETWORKING DINNER This evening, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, hosted international buyers and tourism stakeholders at a networking cocktail dinner held at the Oceans Mall Infinity Sky Deck in Umhlanga . Addressing guests, MEC Zondi said the gathering was “a deliberate platform that brings together the people who shape tourism flows, influence markets, unlock investment and build partnerships that move our industry forward.” He highlighted KwaZulu-Natal’s successful bid to host Africa’s Travel Indaba from 2026 to 2030, describing Durban and the province as “the home of Africa’s Travel Indaba” and a leading gateway for tourism, trade and investment on the continent. MEC Zondi also pointed to growing investor confidence in the province, citing developments such as the Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari project, the acquisition of the Hilton Durban by a Dubai-based investment group and continued growth in international air connectivity through King Shaka International Airport. “The conversations you begin here may shape future itineraries, future investments and future partnerships across Africa,” said MEC Zondi, encouraging buyers and stakeholders to continue strengthening collaboration across the tourism sector. #KZNEDTEA#ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurbanGovZAUpdatesKZN

PICTURES: Bursting with colour and culture, Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 delegates are proudly rocking African prints. From striking patterns to radiant hues, the atmosphere is alive with timeless heritage woven into every outfit. #KZNEDTEA#ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurbanGovZAUpdatesKZN KZNInspiringNewHope

AFRICA TRAVEL INDABA DAY 3 IN FULL SWING WITH STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENTS AND PARTNERSHIPS Day 3 of the Africa Travel Indaba was in full swing today, marked by productive engagements and strategic discussions aimed at strengthening tourism and economic growth opportunities. The MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, together with the Head of Department, Dr. Nkosenye Zulu, held a series of strategic meetings and partnership engagements throughout the day. These interactions focused on fostering collaboration, driving investment opportunities, and advancing the province’s tourism agenda. The MEC Zondi also conducted a walkabout at the exhibition floor, where he engaged with various delegates, exhibitors, and stakeholders, highlighting the importance of collaboration in growing the tourism sector. #KZNEDTEA #ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurban GovZAUpdatesKZN KZNInspiringNewHope

PICTURES: KwaZulu-Natal flag is flying high at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 with EDTEA entities, development agencies and industry leaders proudly showcasing the province’s world-class services and products. #KZNEDTEA #ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurban

Yesterday, 12 May 2026 , marked the official opening of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 a celebration of tourism, culture, collaboration, and opportunity across the continent. An inspiring start to connecting with industry leaders, showcasing African excellence, and shaping the future of travel and tourism together. #KZNEDTEA #ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurban GovZAUpdatesKZN

AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA DRIVES TOURISM GROWTH AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES The MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, joined SABC’s Morning Live to highlight the growing impact of Africa’s Travel Indaba, one of the continent’s leading tourism and trade exhibitions. The interview positioned KwaZulu-Natal as the proud and strategic host province of this globally recognised event, which continues to attract tourism leaders, investors, and business stakeholders from across Africa and beyond. During the discussion, the MEC emphasised tourism as a powerful catalyst for economic growth, investment, and job creation, while reaffirming the province’s commitment to supporting SMMEs and expanding opportunities within the tourism value chain. KwaZulu-Natal’s world-class tourism infrastructure, improved connectivity, and growing investor confidence were also showcased as key factors strengthening the province’s reputation as a competitive destination for tourism and business events. The interview further underscored the continental significance of Africa’s Travel Indaba in promoting regional integration, unlocking enterprise development opportunities, and driving inclusive economic growth through tourism. #KZNEDTEA #ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurban

[IN PICTURES] The MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, held a highly strategic meeting with Lesotho’s Minister of Sports, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Motlatsi Maqelepo, to discuss the Lesotho Drakensberg Cable Car Project. The engagement, held on the sidelines of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 in Durban, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, advancing regional tourism development, and exploring the economic opportunities the project will unlock for both South Africa and Lesotho. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both parties to collaborative growth, sustainable tourism and regional integration. #KZNEDTEA #ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurban GovZAUpdatesKZN KZNInspiringNewHope

MEC ZONDI JOINS LEADERS AT AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA 2026 Today, the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, joined leaders from across the continent at the opening ceremony of Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026. The showcase, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC, was officially opened by His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, who remarked that the Indaba has “become one of the most powerful platforms for tourism growth on the continent.” Held under the theme “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy,” the Indaba serves as a strategic platform to showcase Africa’s tourism potential, strengthen partnerships, and drive investment across the continent’s travel and hospitality industries. Speaking during the opening ceremony, MEC Zondi said: “For KwaZulu-Natal, Africa’s Travel Indaba is more than just a trade show. It is one of the most important economic and tourism platforms on our calendar. It brings buyers, exhibitors, investors, airlines, tour operators, and media from across the world into our province, creating opportunities for growth, partnerships, and market access for our tourism businesses.” As one of Africa’s premier tourism trade exhibitions, the Indaba brings together key stakeholders to promote intra-African travel, market tourism destinations, and unlock new business opportunities within the sector. MEC Zondi also urged delegates to experience KwaZulu-Natal beyond the conference halls while conducting business over the coming days. “Explore our coastline, our mountains, our wildlife, our heritage, our township experiences, and our vibrant culture. We especially encourage you to participate in the post-tours and discover why this province remains one of Africa’s most diverse and authentic tourism destinations,” he said. The hosting of Africa’s Travel Indaba in KwaZulu-Natal is also expected to provide a significant boost to the province’s tourism and hospitality sectors, while reinforcing South Africa’s position as a leading tourism destination on the continent. #KZNEDTEA #ATI2026 #SouthAfricaAwaits #ComeFindYourJoy #VisitKZN UnlimitedAfrica VisitDurban