DURBAN’S COASTLINE GETS MAJOR TOURIST SAFETY BOOST DURING AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

12 MAY 2026

The Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), in partnership with eThekwini Municipality and the Department of Tourism, today, 12 May, officially launched the Beach Safety Initiative at Durban’s beachfront.

This first-of-its-kind programme is aimed at strengthening safety and security for tourists and visitors.

The initiative coincides with the ongoing Africa’s Travel Indaba currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

As part of the launch, the TBCSA, funded by the Tourism Marketing South Africa Collaborative Fund, handed over resources to the City, reaffirming the importance of public-private partnerships.

Resources handed over include a 14-seater Kombi, five bakkies, six quad bikes, two trailers, and staff uniforms for a dedicated Coastal and Tourism Division under Durban Metro Police.

The Beachfront Safety Initiative seeks to enhance visitor confidence and improve the overall tourism experience by increasing visible policing, coordinated safety patrols, emergency response readiness, and stakeholder collaboration.

The team will be strategically deployed within key tourism hotspots along Durban’s coastline.

Furthermore, the vehicles are equipped with advanced technology linked to Department of Home Affairs and other critical departments often utilised by tourists.

The initiative is driven by the eThekwini Presidential Working Group.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu emphasised the importance of prioritising tourist safety as South Africa continues positioning itself as a globally competitive tourism destination.

The initiative is expected to play a significant role in creating a safer and more welcoming environment for both local and international visitors while supporting Durban’s reputation as a premier tourism and events destination.

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said the handover demonstrates the value and impact of meaningful partnerships between government and the private sector in driving sustainable tourism growth and ensuring positive visitor experiences.

He said collaboration between the City and the TBCSA continues to produce tangible results that directly benefit communities and visitors.

“TBCSA is committed to playing its part in the revitalisation of Durban as a leading tourism destination for both domestic and international travellers. A key focus of our discussions has been around safety and security, particularly along the beachfront, because visitor confidence is critical to growing tourism and supporting businesses that rely on the sector,” said CEO of TBCSA Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa.

Thousands of delegates attending Africa’s Travel Indaba are expected to experience Durban’s world-class hospitality, beaches, attractions, and tourism offerings throughout the week.

ENDS

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.