KwaZulu-Natal expects more than 920,000 visitors during the winter school holidays, generating close to R1.9 billion in tourism spending, provincial tourism authorities said on Monday.

KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film said its Winter 2026 Tourism Forecast projected 920,320 arrivals between June 26 and July 20, up from 860,035 visitors during the same period last year.

Domestic arrivals are expected to reach 857,107, while international arrivals are forecast at 63,213. Tourism spending is projected to rise from R1.8 billion in 2025 to R1.9 billion this year.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Musa Zondi, said the forecast showed the province remained attractive despite pressure on consumers.

“The projected increase in visitor numbers and tourism spend is a strong indication that KwaZulu-Natal remains one of South Africa’s most attractive destinations,” Zondi said.

“Despite ongoing economic pressures, travellers continue to prioritise experiences, and our province offers exceptional value through

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KwaZulu-Natal’s economic development department said a new R13.4 million small-scale manufacturing and value-add centre in Nongoma is designed to help rural entrepreneurs improve their prospects.

The KwaMajomela Small Scale Manufacturing and Value-Add Centre was implemented through a partnership between the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) and the Zululand District Municipality.

The idea followed a feasibility study commissioned by the department, which confirmed the need for a dedicated small-scale manufacturing and enterprise development facility in KwaMajomela.

Speaking at the official handover in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal economic development MEC Musa Zondi said the facility was more than just infrastructure.

“This centre is not simply a trading site. It is an enterprise development hub, a skills development platform and a community economic anchor. It represents government’s commitment to building an inclusive and resilient local economy,” Zondi said.

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