Southern Sun Hotels and eThekwini Municipality Sign 50-Year Lease

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 11, 2025

The eThekwini Municipality and Southern Sun Hotels recently signed a R1 billion lease on 29 October for the redevelopment of two of Durban’s iconic hotels, the Elangeni and Maharani Towers.

EThekwini Municipality and Southern Sun Hotels signed a 50-year lease agreement to redevelop the Elangeni and Maharani Towers. The partnership will also see the upgrade of nearby amenities, including a Municipal park. | Photo: Supplied. 

The current lease for these hotels is set to expire in December 2025.

This new 50-year lease was won by Southern Sun after a fair and transparent bidding process. This was after a Request for Proposals from industry in November 2023.

This lease agreement is a major part of the Municipality’s Proactive Land Release Strategy and allows the Municipality to realise its vision as set out in the Inner City Local Area Plan, which aims to protect and enhance the beachfront as a key tourism asset.

This R1 billion capital investment will see R622 million go to the upgrade of the Elangeni and Maharani, R157 million for movable assets and R348 million on two additional hotels owned by the same entity.

This is part of a functionality requirement that required bidders to further invest in the Durban beachfront precinct.

There will also be another R5 million invested towards the development of the Sunken Gardens, a Municipal park opposite the Elangeni and Maharani hotels.

‘’The integrity of the Golden Mile depends on these hotels. They are not just structures, they are symbols of Durban’s identity, resilience, and ambition. We extend our deep gratitude to Southern Sun as this lease agreement is a declaration of intent that Durban will grow broadly and inclusively,’’ said Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli, representing eThekwini Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba.

Chairperson of the Human Settlements, Engineering, and Transport Committee Councillor Themba Mvubu noted that the City’s Land Release Strategy aims to turn Municipal assets into engines of growth and empowerment.

‘’A resilient city anticipates change, adapts, and draws strength from partnerships. By building alliances between public and private sectors, the City and community, and infrastructure and events; we will fortify Durban’s future and harness tourism for inclusive growth. This will help uphold our status as Africa’s premier destination for festivals, events, and tourism,’’ said eThekwini City Manager Dr Musa Mbhele.

This redevelopment will see modernised rooms, restaurants, rooftop experiences, conference spaces, and sustainable solutions like solar power and water-saving systems.

‘’All our hotels are commercially viable despite some challenges we have experienced. EThekwini Municipality sees us as a partner, and we are looking forward to working together towards a common goal,’’ noted CEO of Southern Sun Marcel von Aulock.

Von Aulock also revealed that since the launch of their summer sale, 70 percent of their bookings are for Durban, which shows that visitors are just as supportive of their vision for the City.

Lifeguards Honoured by City

 

By Fred Felton | Nov.9, 2025

As the City prepares for the festive season the eThekwini Municipality has honoured its lifeguards for their dedication to water safety.

Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala survived a 2018 brutal attack. He was honoured at the ceremony. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

The awards ceremony was hosted by the Municipality’s Recreation and Parks Directorate at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 5 November to recognise beach and swimming pool lifesavers for their service.

‘’Your tireless efforts and commitment to keeping our communities safe are truly appreciated. We thank you for representing the City well to thousands of families who visit our beaches and swimming pools,’’ said Chairperson of the Community Services Committee Councillor Zama Sokhabase.

She noted that the City expects large crowds at beaches and swimming pools during the holidays and she had confidence that lifeguards were thoroughly able to handle emergencies.

EThekwini lifeguards were honoured and awarded for their bravery and professional excellence in saving lives. These everyday heroes play a vital role throughout the year, preventing drownings and ensuring public safety through vigilant supervision. | Photo: Nonjabulo Chamane. 

‘’We acknowledge that you guys are the heroes of the City,’’ said Dr S.E. Ndlovu, Director Recreation and Parks.

There were many lifeguards honoured at the ceremony and among those was Senior Lifeguard Mhlengi Gwala who survived a 2018 brutal attack that resulted in the amputation of his leg. Gwala has continued to do well in both lifesaving and global sports, earning much praise.

Senior Lifeguard Sihle Xaba was also recognised for his recent victory at the South African Bodyboard Championships and for representing the country in international surfing events.

‘’You are our unsung heroes, your dedication does not go unnoticed,’’ noted Mr Troye Brown, Chairperson Lifesaving KwaZulu Natal. 

The lifeguards also renewed their oath to protect lives during the ceremony, which ended with the unpacking of new uniforms for beach lifeguards and swimming pool supervisors.

These new uniforms show the Municipality’s commitment to safety and professionalism during the festive season.

Boost for businesses owned by people with disabilities

 

Boost for businesses owned by people with disabilities

ETHEKWINI Municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to support entrepreneurs with disabilities through the handover of essential business equipment recently at The Station Urban Event Space.

The handover was led by Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli in partnership with the Department of Small Business Development.

Ninety four beneficiaries from the eThekwini Disability Business Chamber received tools to boost their businesses. Equipment handed over included laptops, printers, cameras, cooking stoves, grass-cutting machines, industrial sewing machines, washing machines, and fridges.

This support was provided under the Informal Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP), which is a programme of the Department of Small Business Development focusing on empowering small businesses and cooperatives, particularly in townships and rural areas.

Councillor Ntuli said: ‘’The handover of equipment to informal traders is a significant step towards empowering small businesses cooperatives. Through initiatives like the IMEDP together with national government, we are committed to creating opportunities for growth, job creation, and economic transformation in our community,’’ said Councillor Ntuli.

By equipping businesses with the right tools, the programme helps them grow, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

Noko Manyelo, Acting Head of Communications and Marketing at the Department of Small Business Development said: ‘’This initiative represents more than just a handover of equipment; it is about restoring dignity and creating real opportunities.’’

DFF Recognition Awards celebrate top fashion talent

 

DFF Recognition Awards celebrate top fashion talent

THIRTEEN outstanding eThekwini fashion designers and new models were honoured at the Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) Recognition Awards on 26 September at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

Sibu Msimang, recipient of the Durban Fashion Fair Special Recognition Award, was honoured for her two-decade career in fashion. She is flanked by the Chairperson of the City's Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli and eThekwini Municipality's SMME Development Director, Nonku Mthembu. | Photo: Supplied. 

The awards formed part of the 2025 Durban Business Fair Excellence Awards, which celebrate thriving small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises across the City.

Mzwandile Mathonsi, founder of the ladieswear brand ZWANDYY, won the top honour of Durban Designer of the Year. His award-winning collection, Beauty in Black, was inspired by his community and personal journey.

Another highlight of the evening was the Special Recognition Award presented to Sibu Msimang, whose career spans more than two decades and includes both local and international showcases.

Other winners included Slo Makhanya, founder of Nomalawee, who received the Collection of the Week Award along with R15 000 in support for her African modern collection featuring multi-functional garments with volume and layers.

Thami Njabulo, head of Monarch Detailer, won Best Menswear Collection, while Pinky Dlamini’s Modesta received Best Ladieswear Collection. The Fashion Innovator Award went to Kireshen Chetty, a designer and architect celebrated for his innovative designs.

Dfant Fashion Clothing was named Next Generation / Emerging Durban Designer. The DFF Rising Star Awards went to Melissa Dlamini in first place, Siphesihle Khumalo in second place, and Siphumelele Shange in third place.

In the modelling category, Sithembiso Mhlongo won New Face Male, Zandile Lungwase received New Face Female, and Mandisa Khuboni was awarded New Face Plus Size.

Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli said the DFF Recognition Awards continue to shine a spotlight on the City’s fashion talent.

‘’These awards are part of eThekwini’s Fashion Development Programme and follow a highly successful DFF showcase, which connected local talent with various industry roleplayers. For over a decade, the Fashion Development Programme has been a vital platform for designers to access markets while promoting local manufacturing, entrepreneurship and job creation. It is crucial that we continue to support these designers with enterprise development tools,’’ said Councillor Ntuli.

New road unveiled as part of Public Service Month

 

New road unveiled as part of Public Service Month

TO COMMEMORATE Public Service Month, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba led a series of impactful activities aimed at improving service delivery and engaging directly with both Municipal staff and the public.

Kicking off the Public Service Month activities on 25 September, Mayor Xaba led a walkabout at the Revenue Customer Services Centre based in the Florence Mkhize Building. During the walkabout, he interacted with frontline staff and observed operations.

Mayor Xaba also visited the Arrears Management Section to assess the revenue clearance and sale in execution processes, reinforcing the City’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and resident-focused services.

Following this, Mayor Xaba officially opened a newly upgraded 2km blacktop road in Inkangala, Emagabheni. Previously a gravel road, this R6.3 million low-volume road project was designed internally and now connects rural households to the main road, significantly improving mobility and access. The upgrade has positively impacted service delivery, particularly for water tankers that previously struggled to reach the community due to poor road conditions.

Mayor Xaba said water delivery is now consistent and reliable in the area. ‘’We are also encouraged that this project contributed to local economic empowerment, employing several community members, which included women and youth.’’

He added: ‘’The initiative reflects the Batho Pele Principles by placing residents at the heart of service delivery. These activities form part of our 2030 vision.’’

Highlights from reSURGEnce Durban 2025

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 12, 2025

A successful reSURGEnce Conference Durban 2025 was recently held from 20 to 24 September at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.

From business showcases and tech innovation to impactful discussions and cultural tours, Durban came alive with ideas, opportunities, and action during the reSURGEnce Conference. | Photo: Supplied. 

The two days of the conference brought together leaders, investors, innovators, stakeholders and entrepreneurs from Africa and the World.

The focus of the conference was focused on strategies to ensure the continent’s economy is inclusive and shared by all. Delegates left with renewed purpose and plans to create opportunities for small businesses, unlock global trade links, and drive growth for all.

Talks focused on empowering historically disadvantaged businesses, regenerating urban spaces without displacing communities, and positioning Durban as a technology hub through the Silicon Durban initiative, which was inspired by the successful Silicon Harlem in New York.

Silicon Harlem’s Chief Executive Officer, Clayton Banks, shared key insights on how Durban can replicate this model to become Africa’s rising tech hub.

‘’We are planning to leverage existing structures as reporting lines to ensure Durban delivers on the commitments made here,’’ said eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele.

He also gave key steps to achieve this which included: ongoing mentorship and export readiness programmes for historically disadvantaged businesses, creating a digital youth database, improving access for small businesses through streamlined purchasing platforms, and aligning local and U.S.A trade frameworks.

‘’We are optimistic that the partnerships forged here will translate into sustainable jobs, thriving businesses, and a resilient City economy. Together, we are rewriting the story of Africa’s place in global trade,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

One of the many businesses that had a stand at the exhibition. | Photo: Supplied. 

The conference also featured business engagements and exhibitions. Five local businesses exhibiting were chosen to present on stage to all the delegates.

‘’Being part of reSURGEnce Durban gave me maximum exposure. I gained new customers from outside South Africa, including Uganda. This opportunity has opened the door for my business to grow internationally,’’ said Thando Chisane of Uthando Glow Skin.

The conference ended on 24 September and then delegates explored the City’s historic and cultural landmarks in commemoration of Heritage Day.

Nu Metro Gateway Now Open

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 7, 2025

Nu Metro opened its newest flagship cinema at Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Friday, 3 October.

 

The cinema complex is full of luxury, innovation, and immersive entertainment in the heart of Umhlanga Ridge.

 

The Nu Metro Gateway complex has 9 state-of-the-art cinemas, including the country’s first-ever ScreenX auditorium.  This features a 270-degree panoramic format that surrounds the audience with visuals on three walls.

 

Guests can also experience 4DX, Scene Xtreme, and a dedicated Kidz Cinema. There is also VIP Premiere Cinemas with plush leather recliners, an exclusive lounge area, and a gourmet curated menu with full-service bar.

 

‘’This complex sets the benchmark for what the future of cinema should feel like,’’ said Beverley Govender, Senior Marketing Manager, at Nu Metro.

 

Expect loads of giveaways, loyalty rewards, exclusive competitions, VIP ticket giveaways and surprises in October. For October you can experience ScreenX for only R100 and see F1, How to Train your Dragon and Superman. 

 

Get tickets at the box office or online at numetro.co.za