In partnership with Eastern Cape Parks and the provincial government, the Buffalo City Metro rolled out the red carpet for both local and international tourists with various attractions as it officially launched Tourism Month, a month commemorated each September highlighting the vital contribution of tourism to South Africa’s economy, job creation, inclusive growth and national development.
This year’s theme, “Tourism Matters: A Strategic Force for Growth”, focuses on tourism’s power to stimulate recovery and sustainable transformation.
At the launch held on 29th August at EKoneni Lounge in Mdantsane as part of township tourism revival, a jam-packed line-up of tourism activities that will be happening in and around the Metro this September was announced.
“Township tourism is a living, breathing example of sustainability and transformation. It tells authentic stories, creates real jobs, supports local businesses, and redefines the tourism experience from the inside out,” said Economic Development and Agencies Portfolio Head, Councillor Sixolisiwe Ntsasela.
She said places like EKoneni Lounge are not just social venues but symbols of township pride, innovation and resilience.
The Buffalo City Metro offers diverse tourist destinations such as nature reserves, museums, hiking trails and boasts a stunning coastline that stretches about 68 kilometres with 10 beaches.
Last year, the City received Blue Flag pilot status (one of the world’s most recognised eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators) for Gonubie Beach and Kidds Beach from the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA).
The status is mostly obtained by beaches which have complied with WESSA regulations across over 33 different categories that include, amongst others: water quality, compliance, environmental management of beaches, parking, safety, access points and cleanliness.
As part of Tourism Month celebrations, the City unveiled a list of planned activities on offer for Buffalo City residents during the September tourism month, which include the Nahoon Bats Cave hike, the Tyusha Hiking Trail, Wild Side hike and Kiwane Resort Weekend Specials.
