Two dozen of Durban’s most promising tourism businesses have received a practical leg-up worth a combined R720 000, as Durban Tourism completed the prize-giving for its fifth Durban Tourism Business Awards with a handover of tailor-made tools of trade.
The 24 beneficiaries emerged as first and second runners-up in the awards, which were held in June 2026. While category winners collected their prizes at the June ceremony, this week’s handover completed the process, with each runner-up receiving equipment matched to the specific needs of their operation.
Tools chosen to fit each business
Rather than a one-size-fits-all prize, the support package was built around what each enterprise actually requires to grow. The tools of trade included:
- Electronics and office equipment
- Furniture for customer-facing spaces
- Other essential business tools identified by each beneficiary
The intervention is designed to strengthen the businesses’ day-to-day operations, improve their capacity and create an enabling environment for them to expand and contribute meaningfully to Durban’s tourism economy.
Backing the people behind the destination
Thembo Ntuli, chairperson of the eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, said the city recognises the vital role that innovative tourism businesses play in growing Durban’s offering to visitors.
“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,” Ntuli said.
He added that supporting tourism enterprises is critical to building a vibrant and inclusive tourism economy, one that creates opportunities for local businesses and the communities they employ and serve.
A growing tradition of recognition
Now in its fifth edition, the Durban Tourism Business Awards have become a fixture on the city’s calendar, celebrating the guesthouses, tour operators, attractions and service providers that keep South Africa’s warmest city on travellers’ itineraries.
By pairing recognition with resources, Durban Tourism is turning applause into working capital, and reaffirming its commitment to a tourism sector where small enterprises can compete, thrive and help the city welcome ever more visitors to its golden beachfront.
Source: SAnews.gov.za
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
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