The rural tourism industry in KwaZulu-Natal has been given a major boost, with the recent announcement by UNESCO that two sites within the province have been announced as World Heritage Sites: the Sibhudu Cave in Tongaat and the Ohlange Institute near Inanda township.
The team led by KwaZulu-Natal Amafa and Research Institute CEO, Dr Mxolisi Dlamuka, were received by a huge crowd when they landed at King Shaka airport on Wednesday evening.
At the welcoming event, KZN MEC Sports, Art and Culture Mntomuhle Khawula said this boosts their goal of packaging KwaZulu-Natal as a heritage and history rich destination.
He also mentioned that the Sibhudu Caves will now compete for the visit of tourists from all over the world as it boasts international recognition as a prime tourist attraction.
“We will work in cooperation with all stakeholders concerned to ensure that this site is developed to become tourist-friendly so that it can benefit the local community, and the entire KZN economy,” he said.
In an effort to boost tourism and spread economic growth to rural and peri-urban areas, the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTFA) is increasing its efforts to revitalise rural tourism products, enhance skills development, and expand heritage and cultural routes.
These ambitious initiatives are part of the KZNTFA's overarching strategy to ensure that all parts of the province benefit from the economic opportunities offered by the tourism industry.
Sibusiso Gumbi, the KZNTFA's Interim CEO, commented on the recent UNESCO World Heritage designation, expressing his excitement and pride.
“This is a huge achievement by all involved – spanning decades of preparation and commitment. The UNESCO/World Heritage announcement follows hot on the heels of other rural tourism events and activities held in the province such as the recent Dundee July, creating massive economic spin-offs for the local communities,” he said
In addition to the recent UNESCO designation, several other major tourism developments are poised to transform KwaZulu-Natal's tourism industry.
The refurbishment of the renowned Shakaland Cultural Village and Adventure Resort on the North Coast is set to inject millions of rand into the local economy, while King's Lodge in Jozini, Lubombo Lodge in Ulundi, Ntsikeni & May Lodge, and Lilani Hotsprings will also receive significant investment.
To further celebrate the historic and cultural significance of the Sibhudu Cave and its ancient artifacts, AMAFA (the KwaZulu-Natal Amafa and Research Institute) plans to construct an interpretative centre or museum nearby, which will serve as a hub for visitors.
This centre will showcase the site's incredible history.
IOL Lifestyle