Delivering an address on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the resort’s official opening, De Lille also pointed to the project’s construction employment, skills development, tourism growth and the responsibilities of government and business in supporting sustainable tourism investment.
“This facility represents more than R2 billion in investment, making it the largest hospitality investment in South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community since Sun City first opened its doors in the 1970s.”
The investment is South African-funded, with the consortium behind the project committed to B-BBEE.
More than 2,300 direct and indirect construction jobs were created during the development of the resort.
The resort has created 600 permanent direct jobs, while a further 1,500 indirect jobs are supported through suppliers and related industries.
De Lille said 84% of Beach Resort employees are South African, while all employees at Vikela Safari Lodge are from surrounding communities.
De Lille highlighted the combination of the Beach Resort and Vikela Safari Lodge, linking the KwaZulu-Natal coast with wildlife experiences in northern KZN.
“It gives travellers another compelling reason to choose South Africa, to stay longer and to discover more of what our country offers.”
De Lille said South Africa’s tourism sector continued its strong growth trajectory in 2026, with 6.5 million international arrivals recorded between January and July, up 12.4% year on year.
“For this calendar year until the end of July 2026, South Africa’s tourism sector continued its strong growth trajectory.”
She said the resort’s opening comes at a time when the tourism industry is preparing for the festive season.
On behalf of President @CyrilRamaphosa, I have officially inaugurated South Africa’s first Club Med in KwaZulu Natal.
— Patricia de Lille (@PatriciaDeLille) September 17, 2026
The Club Med Beach & Safari Resort represents more than R2 billion in investment, making it the largest hospitality investment in South Africa and the broader… pic.twitter.com/6br1TE5MZI
“This resort will need fresh produce, maintenance, transport and a dependable network of suppliers.”
“Each of these connections can create an opening for a small, micro and medium enterprise.”
De Lille highlighted local procurement, fair access to supplier opportunities and partnerships with smaller tourism operators.
De Lille said construction workers, artisans and contractors gained experience through the project that could be taken into future work.
She also highlighted the resort employees responsible for delivering the visitor experience.
“Their professionalism and hospitality will help shape how they remember our country.”
De Lille highlighted cooperation between government, business, communities and training organisations.
She said government has responsibilities around infrastructure, public services, administration and safety.
“Business has a responsibility to invest for the long term, develop its workforce and build meaningful relationships with the communities around it.”
De Lille said bringing these responsibilities together can support jobs, growing businesses, youth qualifications and community participation.
De Lille also addressed the environmental responsibilities associated with tourism development.
“Responsible use of water and energy, less waste and care for the surrounding environment must remain part of the everyday work of tourism.”
She encouraged international visitors to explore beyond the resort.
“To our international guests, welcome. Enjoy this resort and take time to discover the people, places and stories beyond it.”
