By Levy Masiteng
Durban’s coastline received a major tourism safety boost on Tuesday as the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) officially handed over vehicles and specialised resources to the eThekwini Municipality during the launch of the Beach Safety Initiative at the beachfront.
Funded through the Tourism Marketing South Africa Collaborative Fund, the TBCSA handed over a 14-seater kombi, five bakkies, six quad bikes, two trailers, and uniforms for a dedicated Coastal and Tourism Division under the Durban Metro Police.
“The collaboration between the City and the TBCSA continues to produce tangible results that directly benefit communities and visitors,” said eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba.
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The municipality said the resources will be used to strengthen visible policing, improve coordinated patrols along the beachfront, enhance emergency response capabilities, and boost safety operations in key tourism hotspots.
“Some of the vehicles are also equipped with advanced technology linked to the Department of Home Affairs and other critical departments frequently accessed by tourists,” it said.
The initiative is driven by the eThekwini Presidential Working Group.
The launch, held at Durban’s beachfront during Africa’s Travel Indaba, came as thousands of tourism delegates, exhibitors, buyers, and international media gather in Durban for one of Africa’s largest tourism trade shows at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
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“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,” TBCSA CEO Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa said.
According to eThekwini, the Beach Safety Initiative is aimed at improving safety and security for tourists and visitors along Durban’s coastline as the city hosts high-profile international tourism events.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Makhotso Sotyu said tourist safety remains critical as South Africa continues positioning itself as a globally competitive tourism destination.
The city said the initiative is expected to create a safer and more welcoming environment for both local and international visitors while reinforcing Durban’s reputation as a premier tourism and events destination.
