THE City of uMhlathuze is well placed for tourism, but is far from fulfilling its potential.
The recently established uMhlathuze Community Tourism Organisation (uCTO) promises a new era in tourism, but it must become a key stakeholder in the budget and Integrated Development Planning processes.
That was the message from City Speaker, Mduduzi Mhlongo, at the official opening of the new tourism office at the Tuzi Gazi Waterfront.
‘Council is looking for an ever improving relationship with the uCTO as it is only through partnerships that government is able to achieve its objectives.
‘We need tourism income to filter downstream to rural communities, such as with the Zulu dance group that performed here today,’ said Mhlongo.
uCTO Chairperson, Prof Thandi Nzama, described the City as ‘a unique destination’ which could be developed and packaged into a valuable tourist attraction.
‘Our committee has worked hard, but passion alone does not do it. We need the ongoing support of council.’
Special praise was heaped on Sipho Mchunu, the City’s hard-working Tourism Information Officer, and on waterfront businessman Rob Hughes, who has donated the new office space at no charge.
