ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DURBAN TOURISM HANDS OVER TOOLS OF TRADE TO 24 TOURISM BUSINESSES
Durban Tourism today reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the tourism sector and supporting local tourism enterprises by handing over tools of trade valued at a combined R720 000 to 24 tourism businesses that emerged as first and second runners-up in the 5th Durban Tourism Business Awards, held in June 2026.
Category winners received their prizes at the awards ceremony in June. Today's handover, held as part of the City's ongoing efforts to recognise and support innovation and excellence in the tourism sector, completes the prize-giving process, with runners-up receiving tools of trade tailored to their operational needs.
The support included electronics, furniture, office equipment and other essential business tools, based on the specific requirements identified by each beneficiary. The intervention is aimed at strengthening the businesses' day-to-day operations, improving their capacity and creating an enabling environment for them to grow and contribute meaningfully to Durban's tourism economy.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the City recognises the important role played by innovative tourism businesses in growing Durban's tourism offering.
"The success of Durban as a tourism destination is linked to the strength, resilience and competitiveness of the businesses and people who form part of our tourism value chain. The handover of these tools of trade is about ensuring that our tourism businesses have the necessary resources to strengthen their operations and grow," said Cllr Ntuli.
He added that supporting tourism enterprises was critical to building a vibrant and inclusive tourism economy that creates opportunities for local businesses and communities.
The beneficiaries welcomed the support, highlighting that the tools of trade will assist them in addressing some of the practical challenges they face in running and expanding their businesses.
Owner of The Lazy Moose, Mr Luke Murgatroyd, who was the first runner-up in the Green and Sustainable category, said the tools his business has received will help improve efficiency and productivity and address operational challenges.
The Durban Tourism Business Awards continue to provide a platform to showcase businesses that are making a positive contribution to the destination's tourism value chain while encouraging innovation, service excellence and transformation within the sector.
Through initiatives such as the awards and the provision of tools of trade, the City is strengthening partnerships with the private sector and empowering tourism businesses to unlock their potential and contribute to the continued growth of Durban as a world-class tourism destination.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality's Marketing and Communications Directorate
