Call to get involved in Tourism Month celebrations

CEO of Tourism KZN, Ndabo Khoza, KZN MEC of Economic Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs, Mike Mabuyakhulu, Mayor of KwaDukuza, Cllr Ricardo Mthembu, Deputy Mayor of ILembe District Municipality, Dolly Shandu and Mike Gumede, Owner of Ebandla Hotel

The theme for this year's tourism month, as announced by the National Department of Tourism, is 'Tourism, Transforming Lives'. This is derived from the United Nations' World Tourism Day message of 'Tourism and Community Development'.

The focus of the tourism month message is to showcase the value of tourism in social, cultural, political and economic value. In addition, within South Africa a special focus should be placed on the ability for tourism to uplift and transform communities and previously disadvantaged individuals.

"Tourism is everybody's business, because we are all ambassadors for our destination," said Ndabo Khoza, CEO of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal.

"We want to get the whole province behind tourism, to remind them that every single one of us has a role to play in ensuring tourists and visitors to our destination have a great stay, and to make sure they return again and again."

It's about impact

KZN MEC Department of Economic Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs, Mike Mabuyakhulu supports the theme and said: "Transformation isn't only about success stories and sharing them so that they generate interest, it's about the impact they make."

A key focus for Tourism KwaZulu-Natal is to highlight tourism empowerment initiatives that have helped to transform the lives of communities, whilst providing an exceptional experience for tourists and visitors alike.

Some of the selected establishments and tourism entrepreneurs will be celebrated in the various media campaigns by TKZN throughout the month of September include Jozini Tiger Lodge, Isandlwana Lodge, Olwandle Guest House & Hotel, Kuhle Tours, Essenwood Guest House, among others.

The Zulu Kingdom has always been known as a hub of activity and a province synonymous with fun and, over the past 20 years, has delivered unrivalled experiences. TKZN is encouraging the people of KZN to rediscover the wonders of this destination, return to places that are alive with the heritage and relax in the tranquil nature.

"Part of our Tourism Month programme encourages people to get out and explore our beautiful province. Whether it's a quick weekend break, a fun day trip, or perhaps an extended stay around Heritage Day, we want people to re-charge in KwaZulu-Natal," said Khoza.

Visitors are invited to make a day trip or turn the last weekend of the month into a five-day weekend when you celebrate Heritage Day on Thursday, 24 September and World Tourism Day on Saturday, 27 September, 2014.

Tourism Friday

Tourism Friday is a bid to mobilise the people of KZN to support tourism by wearing a yellow T-shirt (or shirt) on a Friday.

The public is encouraged adorn their yellow T-shirts every Friday and contribute to the success of the social media campaign, where they can engage and promote the hashtag #GottaLuvKZN.

The fun will also reach shopping malls around the province including, Mega City, Umlazi Durban, Liberty Mall, Pietermaritzburg, Newcastle Mall, Newcastle and Boardwalk, Richard's Bay.

For more information, go to www.zulu.org.za.