SCTIE continues to grow tourism investment potential on KZN South Coast
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 06 March 2024 SCTIE continues to grow tourism investment potential on KZN South Coast Boasting the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the province, as well as two world-class dive sites, adventure and extreme tourism offerings, Ugu District remains a top tourism destination. South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) continues to develop these tourism products, expanding the tourism economy which brings with it significant investment opportunities. “Our tourism assets have always been a major drawcard for visitors, but we’re now uncovering the significant investment potential they offer as well,” commented Deborah Ludick, Acting CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Alongside our quality beaches and dive sites, the KZN South Coast offers visitors front-row seats to the annual Sardine Run, considered the planet’s greatest biomass migration. Beyond these, we’re developing our rural tourism assets which meet the growing tourism trend of unique experiences in nature that embrace local heritage.” Rural investment options One such example is the KwaXolo Caves Adventures, a guided heritage tour that uses a via Ferrata system to take visitors into a series of caves adorned with San artwork dating back centuries, set against a backdrop of gorge and waterfall views. Its success has seen an expansion, with the final stages of Phase 3 including an extended 1.06km zipline and landing deck. Investment potential exists in the establishment of an on-site lodge for overnight stays, extended ziplining opportunities, transportation, and recreational activities such as quad biking and paintball. The recently launched 71km Umzumbe River Trails in the hinterland meet the massive demand for such guided hiking trails among iconic scenery. Guests are also exposed to authentic Zulu experiences in homestays along the way. Further investment potential exists in the establishment of a lodge alongside the dam – which has been supported by a feasibility report issued by Umzumbe Town Planning – and the development of recreational activities around the dam for overnight guests, day visitors, corporate team building, and school excursions. Tourism investment potential uncovered Leonard Gomo, the General Manager of Margate Sands – which enjoyed a 6.5% increase from last year’s occupancy of 89.18% – said the Blue Flag beaches, Marine Protected Areas, and hinterland activities make this region an attractive investment option. He added that new initiatives such as the Wellness Way route and Mission Tourism Route are enhancing the offerings. “Further to this are the community initiatives, such as Tidy Towns, that create a conducive tourism environment,” said Gomo. “When communities buy into your business vision it guarantees the longevity of your business lifespan, and the KZN South Coast is on the rise. Investing now enables the investors to grow with the destination while enjoying the benefits of a low-cost investment now.” Corné Alberts, the Group Marketing Manager for ANEW Head Office which includes ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest near Harding, said the KZN South Coast presents various investment opportunities in the tourism sectors. “Infrastructure development, hospitality services, eco-tourism initiatives, and technology-driven enhancements are areas with considerable potential. Exploring partnerships and collaborations to enhance these sectors can be beneficial for investors seeking opportunities in the region,” noted Alberts. “Investing in the KZN South Coast offers numerous benefits, including the region’s natural beauty, a growing tourism sector, and a supportive local community. The potential for sustainable and responsible tourism practices further adds to the appeal. Additionally, the region’s strategic location and diverse offerings make it a promising investment destination with long-term growth prospects.” She added that there has been a noticeable uptick in interest in the KZN South Coast as an investment destination: “The region’s positive tourism trajectory, coupled with its unique attractions, has captured the attention of potential investors.” 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 oss@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 #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoverpotential #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. To purchase goods sold or secure services from these and other Buy Local businesses visit the online directory on the SCTIE website. To make orders from Buy Local members or to join the campaign, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. /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) Margate Sands. Umzumbe River Trails. ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest. KwaXolo Caves Adventures. 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
3 Reasons Why the KZN South Coast is the Destination for Renewable Energy Investment
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 13 March 2024 3 Reasons Why the KZN South Coast is the Destination for Renewable Energy Investment “By harnessing the potential of renewable energy, Africa’s young, dynamically growing economies can ensure energy supply is generated in line with international climate goals.” – The Renewable Energy Transition in Africa The climate crisis and increasing demand for energy across the continent are supporting the shift towards renewable energy production. Solar power generation, in particular, continues to grow in demand, bringing significant investment opportunities in manufacturing and production. South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) on the KZN South Coast is outlining why solar power investment is particularly attractive in this region. “Embracing renewable energy production not only meets international climate goals, but supports the conservation efforts on the KZN South Coast and promotion of our incredible tourism assets. We intend to become energy secure, which will reduce the costs of businesses having to invest heavily in their energy sources to stop their business production downtime,” said Deborah Ludick Manager, Acting CEO of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Reports indicate that, in the second quarter of 2023, some $1.7 billion [around R32 billion] worth of solar power products were imported into the country, showing the spike in demand. Government’s tax incentive for businesses, allowing them to claim a 125% deduction on renewable energy projects until 28 February 2025, further supports the sector. We believe that the KZN South Coast is primed for investment in this sector, and we’re doing what we can to facilitate this.” Ludick said a feasibility study had been undertaken as part of the Eastern Seaboard development plans for the Ugu District Municipality, which considered different energy types – onshore and offshore wind, hydroelectric, biofuels and solar – which are available to investors, enabling them to decide which option would best suit their needs. 1. The KZN South Coast is ideally located to support a range of renewable energy options The region has abundant natural resources that support renewable energy production. The region boasts a year-round subtropical climate with abundant sunny weather making solar energy farms one of the viable investment options. The coastal location also supports wind energy projects as a result of on and offshore wind. The KZN South Coast also forms part of the Eastern Seaboard Development, a government initiative to unlock the economic potential of the region, giving national priority and focused support to this area. 2. The KZN South Coast has available and affordable land There is ample real estate available on the KZN South Coast which is much more affordable than other coastal regions in South Africa. This provides the necessary space for the establishment of solar farms, manufacturing facilities, and more related to solar energy production. 3. The KZN South Coast has the Ugu District One Stop Shop Investment in the region is supported by the Ugu District One Stop Shop which creates a welcoming environment for investors by assisting in fast-tracking projects and reducing government red tape. The Ugu District One Stop Shop assists in regulatory matters such as company registrations, visa and EIA applications, as well as sourcing funding. Through the One Stop Shop, potential investors in renewable energy will enjoy the support needed to benefit from this lucrative sector. 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 oss@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Keep updated on the KZN South Coast by following South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise – SCTIE page on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. Watch why the KZN South Coast is a top investment destination here. Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoverpotential #kznsouthcoast! And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. To purchase goods sold or secure services from these and other Buy Local businesses visit the online directory on the SCTIE website. To make orders from Buy Local members or to join the campaign, visit the Buy Local tag at www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za or click here for a membership form. /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) Renu Holdings (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of the Halfway Group of companies based on the KZN South Coast. (Image credit: Renu Holdings (Pty) Ltd) The sunny climate on the KZN South Coast is just one of the reasons why solar power investment is particularly attractive in this region. Quality and competitively priced real estate available on the KZN South Coast. (Pictured: Renishaw Hills) 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: