Untapped potential highlighted in the KZN South Coast’s crop export market
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 12 June 2023 Untapped potential highlighted in the KZN South Coast’s crop export market For years, the KZN South Coast’s local farmers have taken advantage of the area’s nutrient-rich soil, steady rainfall pattern, and high duration of sunshine to grow and export quality bananas to domestic and international markets. While banana farming remains a strong investment option in this key sector, there is a definite shift to macadamia nut farming – with great investment opportunities emerging. “Along the KZN South Coast, we enjoy a subtropical climate that creates a fertile environment that supports a variety of crops in the agricultural sector,” explained Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “The area is already renowned for its banana production, and the growth of the macadamia nut sector is bringing with it job creation and investment opportunities, with the domestic and international export markets primed for these quality-grown products.” According to local publication, Macadamia, research undertaken by the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) shows that between 2012 and 2022, global tree nut production grew at an average annual rate of about 229 221 tons year-on-year. The world market for macadamia nuts was valued at US$1.53 billion (around R28.7b) in 2022, boasting an annual compound growth rate (CAGR) of 11.2% until 2032. The research suggests that while Australians have been the biggest consumers of the macadamia nut worldwide, shoppers in the United States bought the most imported macadamia nuts at 9 586 tons in 2020. Meanwhile, China imported 8 074 tons, with 8 099 tons imported to France, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium combined. This demand has seen a number of South African farmers shift to macadamia nut farming, if not exclusively, then combined with other agricultural produce. On the KZN South Coast, James Miller, Chairman of Kwa Natal Banana company said that demand patterns have certainly impacted the sector which has seen him convert 50% of his farm to macadamias, keeping the remainder as a banana plantation. The demand for KZN bananas has been impacted by competing countries – such as neighbouring Mozambique and Swaziland which both grow bananas. The ongoing Russian-Ukraine war has also led to increased input costs with fertilizer prices doubling. “Around 80% of banana farmers by volume on the KZN South Coast are members of the company. Most of these farmers have planted sections of their farm to macadamia nuts,” explained Miller. Macadamias have a very high international demand which makes them more profitable. Although banana farming is more labour intensive the skill set required for macadamias is much higher. Miller, who has 22 years of industry experience, said that most of the bananas are sold outside the province and almost all the macadamias are exported. The Macadamia industry has had a marked effect on agriculture along the South Coast prompting investment in companies that provide fertilizer, pesticides, equipment, security, and processing plants. And although the national markets are over-supplied, the demand for locally produced goods means that local retailers and restaurants on the KZN South Coast are considering local farmers. The agricultural sector also boasts further investment opportunities in terms of agri-tourism ventures, with recreational and sports activities, as well as accommodation offerings supporting the growing tourism sector. Some great examples of businesses that are thriving through their agri-tourism offerings include Mac Banana in Munster, Beaver Creek Coffee Estate in Port Edward, Ubumbano Homestead in Scottburgh,BBS Farm in Southport, Mpenjati Coffee in Munster, and B’s Guesthouse in Harding. SCTIE’s launch of the Agri-Culture Tours has supported this initiative, providing visitors with a real taste of the local farmlands through on-site tours and outdoor experiences. The backing of local farmers continues through the launch of SCTIE’s Buy Local campaign. This supports the inclusion of local businesses by developing platforms and business connections for SMMEs – such as those between crafters, farmers, and growers with retailers. The attributes of buying local are also shared through ongoing marketing campaigns. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. To find out more about these and more investment opportunities, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on 039 682 7944, email info@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Keep updated on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Follow the hashtags #unlimitedopportunities #investkznsouthcoast #investment #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications
Property developments on the KZN South Coast attracting outside investment
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 09 June 2023 Property developments on the KZN South Coast attracting outside investment With quality lifestyle determining property location for many investors, the South African coastline continues to come out tops in the property market. The KZN South Coast, with its subtropical year-round climate and incredible natural resources, has noted a boom in property development with buyers from Europe and the United States expressing interest. “The KZN South Coast has Blue Flag Beaches, nature reserves, and top retail and recreational facilities which make it an ideal real estate destination for those prioritising lifestyle,” explained Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Another major drawcard for investors is the affordability of our coastal properties, and the current exchange rate that is making it even more attractive for international buyers considering holiday homes or investments. The development of several coastal estates along the KZN South Coast reflects that the demand for affordable, quality, coastal property is there – and finally being met.” SCTIE has met with local developers recently to uncover further investment opportunities and engage on ways that the entity can assist in overcoming red-tape barriers. Serenity Hills, a Margate-based development acknowledged by South African President Ramaphosa for its contribution towards local investment at the recent 5th South Africa Investment Conference, has noted significant international interest. “Apart from the significant local interest, we also experience a lot of overseas enquiries. The KZN South Coast has always been a popular destination for Dutch, Swiss, and German investors, but we are also receiving enquiries and buyers coming from Botswana, Zambia, the United States, Canada, Austria, and England,” said Sam Wenger, Developer of Serenity Hills. “Firstly, the current exchange rate is working in our favour. International buyers get amazing value for money making this a really affordable investment. Secondly, South Africa remains a very popular tourist destination. The country offers so much, from beaches and mountains to safaris and much more.” Phase 1 of the Serenity Hills development, valued at around R150m, is well underway, with infrastructure set for completion in the next couple of weeks. Currently, 50% of Phase 1 has been sold, bringing around R67m of investment to the district with significant employment opportunities for communities from Masinenge, Gamalakhe and KwaNositha. “The KZN South Coast is experiencing a revival and the upgrade of Margate Airport is likely to attract more buyers from other parts of the country,” continued Wenger. “The semigration trend gave the region a boost, while private individuals and companies such as Tidy Towns are returning the area to its former glory. There is also the quality of life with warm weather and access to healthcare, schools, and recreational activities that are among the best in the country. Where else can you buy a brand new three-bedroom home in a high-security, green living estate with access to more than 25 amenities with high-quality finishes for under R2m?” Property investment extends to the 1 300-hectare Renishaw Coastal Precinct near Scottburgh, which is one of the country’s largest and most awaited developments. The development was also among those acknowledged by President Ramaphosa at the 5th South Africa Investment Conference for the significant contribution already made to the area. Node 1 of 5 interconnected nodes consists of the hugely successful Renishaw Hills mature lifestyle estate. To date, R500m has been spent on this 25-hectare Renishaw Hills out of an anticipated R1 billion. And this is just the start, as Renishaw Hills is the first development located in the 1 300-hectare, mixed-use Renishaw Coastal Precinct which will account for a total spend of around R15 billion upon completion. The estate has received more than R400m in sales so far, with house prices escalating by 50% in just five years – showing the enormous investment value of the area. Barto van der Merwe, MD of Renishaw Coastal Precinct, agreed with the incredible development attributes of the KZN South Coast; affordability, safety, and proximity to quality services: “So far, we’ve had a number of buyers coming from the Western Cape with anticipated overseas interest as the remainder of Renishaw Coastal Precinct develops. Alongside the benefits for investors, the development is set to bring more than 1 000 job opportunities for local communities, boosting the local economy.” In terms of investment, he said the weakened rand coupled with the high growth rate makes the region an appealing investment, for international buyers. “South Africa, and more specifically the KZN South Coast has so much untapped potential when compared with more established coastal regions worldwide which makes this an attractive investment destination,” said van der Merwe. Another development attracting significant international attention is Bahari Bay, the multi-billion-rand eco-estate being developed in Shelly Beach. The focus is on unrivalled recreation and leisure, with plans for exceptional on-site facilities, as well as children’s play areas, hiking paths, and mountain biking trails. Bahari Bay Head of Marketing, Dawid Moller, said that more than half of the 100-hectare luxury estate would be a conservation area, while the remainder would be developed into high-end, modern residential units boasting expansive sea views surrounded by coastal forest. This is set to be a dynamic, future-forward eco-estate providing off-the-grid amenities to ensure an ecologically-friendly environment, and sustainable living for all residents. Moller explained that Phase 1 of this four-phase development is already over 75% sold, with buyers coming from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein and international enquiries from the United States and the United Kingdom already cementing the global interest of the estate. Residential investment opportunities abound at Bahari Bay, with plots starting at R470 000 or a plot-and-plan option starting from R2.8 million. These will be built for the ultimate family lifestyle with a pool, entertainment spaces, open-plan interiors and spacious bedrooms. The estate is pet-friendly, self-sustaining, and doesn’t limit buyers in terms of building designs. Extending from Port Shepstone, the area’s economic hub, throughout the KZN South Coast, there are so many investment opportunities. To find out more about these, get in touch with SCTIE, the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop for investment. Contact SCTIE on
Road upgrade to further cement Port Shepstone as the Business Hub of the KZN South Coast
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 08 June 2023 Road upgrade to further cement Port Shepstone as the Business Hub of the KZN South Coast Considered the economic hub of the KZN South Coast, Port Shepstone is set for a revival with the recent announcement that Marine Drive (the P395) will get a multi-million-rand upgrade. This news has been welcomed by South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) with Port Shepstone now able to attract further investment to the region. “This much-welcome infrastructure upgrade will serve to improve the region while facilitating more movement into and out of Port Shepstone,” explained Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of SCTIE. “This is great news for those looking to invest on the KZN South Coast, particularly as Port Shepstone has developed into the area’s economic and cultural hub. MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Sipho Hlomuka, officiated the launch of the R580 million rehabilitation of the P395 (Marine Drive) in Port Shepstone. According to the KZN Department of Transport, more than 25km of the road would be rehabilitated between Southbroom and Port Shepstone over 30 months. The project is set to create almost 200 jobs with 36.75% of the contract value allocated to local emerging contractors. MEC Hlomuka was reported as saying: “The project has been welcomed by the communities of South Coast who attended the officiation and expressed optimism that this project would help revive the business and tourism sector, thereby creating job opportunities. It is important for us to focus on places such as the South Coast that have a high attraction for tourists. Good roads and generally well-maintained infrastructure assist in drawing tourists, thus boosting the economy.” Port Shepstone, which is found between the coastal towns of Hibberdene and Margate just an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Durban, has emerged as the area’s administrative, educational, distribution and commercial centre. Because of this, the area has key business-driving services including the major banks, government departments, and South African Revenue Service (SARS) offices. Port Shepstone is also the seat for both Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality and Ugu District Municipality, with many businesses using the town as a base for their head offices. The road upgrade comes a few months after construction was completed on the highly anticipated Margate Airport located a mere 20 minutes away from Port Shepstone. This R11-million upgrade has also improved the region’s accessibility, thereby improving prospects for local businesses as well as facilitating investment opportunities from outside the region. Port Shepstone is already a well-established tourism destination with its fantastic beaches, ocean-facing golf course, great restaurants, and the iconic Port Shepstone Lighthouse. With great accommodation and facilities, the region is also a growing MICE (Meetings, incentives, conferences and events) destination, with businesses able to enjoy unique teambuilding experiences from here, including scuba diving, shark cage diving, hinterland excursions, and extreme sports. Investment opportunities extend from quality coastal real estate through to agriculture and manufacturing, with textile and furniture manufacturers located nearby. The Ocean Economy also boasts several investment opportunities, from tourism to renewable energy production, sustainable fisheries, and maritime transport. Port Shepstone’s location also creates access to the Eastern Seaboard Development, a broad and multifaceted vision to develop a new smart city and to bring innovative developments across KZN and the Eastern Cape. To find out more about KZN South Coast investment opportunities visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or follow on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Follow the hashtags #unlimitedopportunities #investkznsouthcoast #investment #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Alternatively, get in touch by emailing Londiwe@sctie.co.za or calling 039 6827944. /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) CAPTION: As the economic hub of the KZN South Coast, Port Shepstone’s accessibility is key to unlocking investment opportunities in the region. About South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) SCTIE was established as the official economic development arm of the KZN South Coast which extends from Scottburgh to Port Edward, and inland to Harding. It is a legal entity of the Ugu District Municipality with executive powers, serving the Ugu District and its family of municipalities. The entity is committed to identifying and unlocking the full tourism and investment potential of this region. SCTIE achieves its mandate of promoting investment through dedicated marketing initiatives, product development, business support and training, dedicated networking events, and breaking down barriers to local investment. From the coast to the hinterland, the KZN South Coast has a wealth of untapped investment potential for those who are looking to branch out into the district and uncover opportunities. The attractive location, subtropical climate, natural assets and accessibility make the KZN South Coast a prime investment destination. By engaging with local and international role players, SCTIE seeks to assist investors looking to uncover hidden gems across various economic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, logistics and transport, and the ocean economy, among others. For more information, visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Issued on behalf of: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Disseminated by: Olivia Jones Communications For more information please contact: Olivia Jones Communications Cell: 083 653 1720 Email: media@oliviajones.co.za
Uncover the untapped potential of KZN South Coast’s maritime sector
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 05 June 2023 Uncover the untapped potential of KZN South Coast’s maritime sector “The Government’s strategic support programme called Operation Phakisa, has set a target to grow the Ocean Economy’s GDP contribution to R177bn by 2033, equivalent to 350% growth of its total value-add in 2016.”- The Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (the DTIC) The 120km coastal stretch, proximity to Durban Port, three Marine Protected Areas, and the annual Sardine Run combine to make the KZN South Coast a vibrant ocean destination just waiting to be uncovered. With South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise’s (SCTIE) providing local investor support, and Operation Phakisa assisting maritime businesses at a national level, now is the time to invest in the KZN South Coast’s Ocean Economy! “The maritime sector has been identified as one of our key growth sectors, and we’re working closely with local businesses to uncover the many investment opportunities afforded here,” explained Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of SCTIE. “With our subtropical climate, Blue Flag beaches, and world-renowned dive sites, the KZN South Coast’s tourism potential within the Ocean Economy is gaining ground, but there is investment potential to be found in the fisheries and boating sectors. We have licenced commercial and subsistence fishers, multiple launch sites, wholesale distributors and multiple species of fish making this a viable maritime market.” The KZN South Coast’s location on the eastern seaboard of South Africa means direct access to the Indian and Pacific Ocean rims via Durban Port – the continent’s busiest port. Durban already boasts capacity for offloading large crude carriers, with the country the leading dry dock for ship repair and maintenance in sub-Saharan Africa. According to the DTIC, South African boat and shipbuilders are already producing advanced crafts, exporting close to US$200m (around R3.7b) of boats and ships annually. Further to this, local boat and small shipbuilders supply crafts to global clients, including the Royal New Zealand Navy, the Australian Defence Force, the United Nations and Singapore’s Special Operations Forces. The potential to develop these skills and build on the Ocean Economy exists on the KZN South Coast. The region is also home to ADCAN Marine Suppliers, a large-scale commercial fishery that employs around 40 people and supplies products to hotels, restaurants, and the retail sector. During the winter months, the annual Sardine Run passes the KZN South Coast which brings a wealth of marine activity to the region. During this time, ADCAN – which has its own processing unit – is able to process three tonnes daily for around six weeks. Beyond sardine supply, the company supplies local fish, tuna, crayfish, calamari, and prawns, with demand for quality seafood always a constant. Another significant maritime-focused company is Tightline Fisheries which specialises in a comprehensive range of fresh and frozen seafood, as well as high-quality restaurant catering products, available countrywide. They consist of a wholesale distribution factory in Uvongo, an accredited EU-processing and export factory, shops in Margate and Shelly Beach with in-house dining, and takeaways and purchasing of top-class products for The Home Chef restaurant. Five local commercial ski boats supply Tightline Fisheries with fresh crayfish, and the company also partners with Ocean Trawling which has two prawn and crustacean vessels off the Durban coast. Tightline Fisheries employs around 200 locals annually and supports a number of local charities and small businesses. As an established tourism destination, the ocean economy holds a lot of potential for developing existing tourism products on the KZN South Coast as well as investing in new, value-add tourism opportunities. The annual Sardine Run, which takes place in the winter months and is considered the greatest biomass migration on earth, is a massive attraction for scuba divers, fishing charters, and seine netters. This is also a drawcard for international filmmakers and production companies looking for unique nature-based content for documentaries, feature films, series, and more. With the annual whale migration another ocean spectacle, the potential exists for shore-based whale-watching guides operating from the many whale-watching decks along the KZN South Coast. While SCTIE is on hand to connect investors with local business opportunities in the maritime sector, investors are also able to take advantage of the national government’s Operation Phakisa initiative. Launched in 2014, this initiative promotes the Ocean Economy by speeding up and simplifying the processes involved in creating, operating, and using the country’s ports and maritime businesses. Investment opportunities in the KZN South Coast maritime sector: Big boat builders for the commercial fishery sector Skills training in the repair and maintenance of boats Investment in next-generation ship and boat-building technology services Provision of storage and logistics services Increased supply of seafood to local buyers provided the consideration of additional permits sourced from the Department: Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Training of anglers with the intention to make them commercial fishers Fish packing in the commercial sector The expansion of launch sites along the KZN South Coast Training for boat / fishing guides on fishing charter trips Tourism-focused diving and fishing charters Whale watching and other ocean-based tour guides Explore new ocean safari tourism outings To find out more about KZN South Coast investment opportunities visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or follow on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Follow the hashtags #unlimitedopportunities #investkznsouthcoast #investment #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Alternatively, get in touch by emailing Londiwe@sctie.co.za or calling 039 6827944. /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) About KZN South Coast Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many
Tourism businesses show support for the newly launched Buy Local campaign
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 02 June 2023 Tourism businesses show support for the newly launched Buy Local campaign Extensive marketing exposure, business support, networking opportunities, and information sharing are just some of the many benefits of Buy Local membership. On the KZN South Coast, several local tourism establishments are already enjoying these business-enhancing advantages having signed up for the South Coast Tourism and Investment (SCTIE) campaign, which forms part of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s (the DTIC) Buy Back SA initiative. “We’d like to welcome our new Buy Local members who have recognised the incredible potential that can be uncovered by joining,” commented Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “For our local tourism businesses that are still deciding, we encourage you to get in touch and find out why signing up for the membership, free of charge until 2025, is the right decision. We’d also like to thank those who have shown support by choosing to buy local wherever they can.” One of the latest businesses to join the Buy Local membership is Port Shepstone-based Obendalo Organics, creators of 100% organic skin and hair care products which are handmade using plant-based oils like tea tree oil, neem oil, and activated charcoal. This woman-owned business sells a range of quality products, including their bestselling Charcoal and Tea Tree Face Bar for acne. Louise Dlungwana, Director of Obendalo Organics, said the company joined Buy Local in March this year: “I would really encourage other companies to join Buy Local as there are a lot of opportunities available locally.” They are joined by Mpenjati Coffee, a Munster-based coffee farm, café, and farm stall that provides customers with a free crop-to-cup tour and some quality-grade coffee. Commenting on their Buy Local membership, Owner Leigh Wichmann said: “We are hoping that, through our Buy Local membership, the local community will be encouraged to visit, and local businesses come and sell their goods at our farm stall. This is an important way for our local community to find out about each other, and support local businesses.” The Buy Local campaign continues to support the rural sector’s inclusion in the mainstream tourism economy by developing platforms and business connections for SMMEs such as those between crafters, farmers, and growers with retailers. Be sure to support the #buylocal campaign at the following establishments (the details of which are available under Buy Local on the www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za website); · Adcan Marine in Park Rynie · All Sorts Shop in Umdoni · Bucks Farm Stall in Trafalgar · Carousel Holiday Resort in Hibberdene · Country Friends Arts, Crafts & Gift Shop in Scottburgh · Inqubele Holdings (crafts) in Bhobhoyi · Kapenta Bay Resort and Conference Hotel in Port Shepstone · Mac Valley in Oribi Gorge · MaFuzeh: The House of Cakes in Gamalakhe · Nemvelo Farm in Izotsha · Ncayiya Traditional Culture (crafts) in uMtwalume · Oatlands Oysters Mushrooms in KwaNositha · Pure Venom (reptile farm) in Izotsha · Southport Swop Shop (second-hand goods) · Sugar Beach Resort in Elysium · Wild Curio Shop at Wild5 Adventures in Oribi Gorge · Zurri Skin in Umdoni Buy Local Membership Companies that qualify for the Buy Local membership include those providing products and services of high quality, with at least 50% of the cost of production of products or services incurred within KZN South Coast. The business needs to currently create employment opportunities for people within the region, or intend to create such opportunities in future. Beyond the direct membership benefits, being part of the Buy Local campaign means enjoying a stronger local and national economy, while attracting more investment. This also leads to better community relationships as local value chains are strengthened. Buy Local membership is free of charge until June 2025, so it’s worth signing up now! To become a Buy Local member or find out more, visit the Buy Local tab at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. Alternatively, get in touch by emailing Londiwe@sctie.co.za or calling 039 6827944. To find out more about the KZN South Coast’s tourism offerings, download the free ‘Explore KZN South Coast’ app from Google Play and Apple stores; visit the South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn; the SCTIE website to check out the Events Calendar, the KZN South Coast Meeting Planner Guide and more! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Follow the hashtags #greatestshoalonearth #sardinerun #sardinerun2023 #kznsouthcoast #extendyourstay #seakznsouthcoast /ENDS All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct image credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. High resolution images are available upon request. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) Ncayiya Traditional Culture (crafts) in uMtwalume. Nemvelo Farm in Izotsha. MaFuzeh: The House of Cakes in Gamalakhe. Mpenjati Coffee, a Munster-based coffee farm, café. Inqubele Holdings (crafts) in Bhobhoyi. About KZN South Coast Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing Agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts several permanently managed Blue Flag beaches and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous bird and wildlife, and it holds