Durban: eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba has announced that the city is set to welcome over a million visitors this festive season, promising a safe and memorable experience for all.
According to South African Government News Agency, Xaba introduced the city's Festive Season Management Plan, highlighting significant service delivery improvements, enhanced safety measures, and a comprehensive tourism program under the theme 'Endless Waves of Tranquillity.'
Xaba noted that this year's festive period comes amidst a renewed sense of optimism, bolstered by advancements in water and sanitation services. For the first time in five years, major bulk water reservoirs, including Durban Heights, Wiggins, and Midmar Treatment Works, are fully operational. This ensures uninterrupted water supply for communities across the city during the holidays.
The Mayor highlighted improvements in coastal management, confirming that all 23 of Durban's bathing beaches are safe for swimming. Since the 2022 floods, the city has worked to repair and upgrade sewer infrastructure along the coastline, with ongoing beach water quality monitoring to achieve Blue Flag status. Additionally, over 40 swimming pools, including the popular Children's Amusement Centre pool, will be open to the public.
Addressing misinformation campaigns, Xaba emphasized transparency in beach water results, inviting collaboration with independent laboratories for verification. The city anticipates 1.3 million visitors, contributing R341 million in direct spending and R845 million to GDP, creating over 15,000 jobs, and generating more than R630 million in taxes. Recent data indicates a 28% increase in domestic tourism spend and a 29% rise in international visitor spend.
The festive season will feature numerous events, such as the Durban Jazz Festival and the Fact Durban Rocks New Year's Celebration. Precinct activations include the City Street Carnival and New Year's Eve fireworks. Enhanced law enforcement visibility will ensure safety, with over 2,000 officers and 500 CCTV cameras deployed citywide. The Coastal and Tourism Policing Unit will patrol the 100-kilometre coastline, and 650 seasonal staff will boost safety and service capacity at the beachfront.
With these comprehensive measures, Xaba is confident in the city's readiness to deliver a vibrant and enjoyable festive season for all.