South Coast Charcoal Entrepreneurs Ignite Growth Through Innovation
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 28 November 2025 South Coast Charcoal Entrepreneurs Ignite Growth Through Innovation The South Coast’s Buy Local movement continues to spotlight exceptional homegrown enterprises, with two dynamic charcoal manufacturers Brighton on Charcoal (Pty) Ltd and Charcoal Legends (Pty) Ltd emerging as powerful examples of innovation, resilience, and economic potential in the region. Both entrepreneurs operate within an industry that remains largely untapped by black role players, making their achievements even more remarkable. Brighton on Charcoal: Turning a Simple Idea into a Township Success Story Launched in 2020 by Brighton Nhlakanipho Cele, Brighton on Charcoal began as a clever idea selling lit charcoal to beachgoers during the December holidays. Today, the Mthwalume Township based business produces around 200 bags of 5kg charcoal per month, delivering a complete braai package that includes firestarters, gloves, bin bags, serviettes, tumblers and more. Brighton believes charcoal manufacturing is “a solid business that will never plummet,” especially with South Africans’ love for braais. The business employs eight people and supplies shisanyamas, guest houses and Hibberdene beach corner stores. Growth has been supported by the municipality’s sponsorship, which provided essential equipment such as a table saw, chainsaw, chisels, and split axes, helping boost production efficiency. With rising demand, Brighton aims to attract investors, expand production and grow into a full braai lifestyle provider offering charcoal, ice, meat, drinks, camp chairs and gazebos. Charcoal Legends: Quality and Vision in an Underrepresented Industry Established in 2022 by Ayanda Mavundla, Charcoal Legends has rapidly grown in an industry where black entrepreneurs represent less than 5% of participants. Operating from Melville near Banana Beach, the company produces 2,500 to 3,000 bags of premium 4kg charcoal monthly with product quality being its strongest selling point. Their charcoal is stocked by a wide network of retailers, including Harbour View Spar, Astron Garage Umtentweni, OK Foods Marburg, Saverite Port Shepstone, Mnandi Meats, multiple Blue Bottle Liquor Stores, and several local superettes. Support from Umzumbe Municipality including a bag-sewing machine and 12,000 branded 4kg bags has aided formalisation. However, long government funding approval timelines remain a challenge for growth, particularly for entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds. Ayanda plans to acquire a briquette-making machine to diversify operations and aims to secure listings with Spar and Pick n Pay outlets across KZN. The business employs four permanent and three part-time staff. CEO, Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya commends Local Excellence “Brighton on Charcoal and Charcoal Legends are powerful examples of the innovation, courage and talent found within South Coast communities. Their success in an industry with limited black participation shows the potential of local enterprise when given the right support. SCTIE is proud to champion these businesses through our Buy Local campaign, because strengthening local producers builds jobs, boosts the regional economy, and uplifts our communities.” Unlock More Growth on the KZN South Coast! Find out more about these and other investment options by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. To find out more about 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. 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. Follow the hashtags #unlockmore #unlockmoregrowth /ENDS Please note the image credit is included beneath the corresponding image. All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct photographer credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) Charcoal Legends Kwanele Mnhlongo from Charcoal Legends, Mr Tsepang Magubane: Graduate – Investment & Projects of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), Ms Vanessa Gounden: Marketing Coordinator of SCTIE, Ms. Zama Nkomo: Marketing Officer of SCTIE & Ayanda Mavundla from Charcoal Legends Brighton Nhlakanipho Cele, the owner of Brighton on Charcoal Brighton on Charcoal 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. The KZN South Coast is poised for major investment with the launch of the national Small Harbours Development Programme, which includes Port Shepstone among its locations. According to South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), this catalytic project is anticipated to unlock the maritime and logistics sectors while driving growth across tourism, trade, and property development on the KZN South Coast. For more information please contact: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Cell: 039 682 7944 Email: vanessa@sctie.co.za
Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate (by P&G Construction) Honoured for Outstanding Investment Commitment at 2024 KZN Trade & Investment Conference
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 12 November 2025 Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate (by P&G Construction) Honoured for Outstanding Investment Commitment at 2024 KZN Trade & Investment Conference South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) proudly congratulates Umdoni Point (by P&G Construction) on receiving the Outstanding Investment Commitment Award for 2024 at the KZN Trade & Investment Conference, held at the Durban ICC from 22–23 October 2025. This prestigious award recognises P&G Construction’s long-standing dedication to responsible development and sustainable community growth in the Umdoni region. The company’s flagship project, Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate, reflects a development philosophy rooted in balance integrating eco-friendly infrastructure, local job creation and environmental preservation. “Umdoni Point” represents the kind of investment that uplifts communities while safeguarding our natural heritage,” said Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). “Their commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth aligns perfectly with our vision for the KZN South Coast as a destination that values both progress and preservation.” Designed to harmonise modern living with its natural surroundings, Umdoni Point features solar power systems, borehole water supply and forest-sensitive architecture. The development offers residents and visitors access to exceptional recreational facilities, including walking and cycling trails, paddle, a clubhouse, swimming pools and landscaped picnic areas, promoting an active and outdoor lifestyle. In addition, on-site restaurants and leisure spaces provide relaxed dining and social experiences that enhance community connection within the estate. Beyond physical development, the project drives skills development, local partnerships and economic participation, ensuring that the benefits of investment are shared throughout the South Coast. As one of SCTIE’s featured real estate investment products, Umdoni Point highlights the region’s potential for sustainable, lifestyle-driven investment. SCTIE commends the company for its outstanding contribution to responsible development and looks forward to continued collaboration in positioning the KZN South Coast as a premier investment and lifestyle destination. Unlock More Growth on the KZN South Coast! Find out more about these and other investment options by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. To find out more about 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. 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. Follow the hashtags #unlockmore #unlockmoregrowth /ENDS Please note the image credit is included beneath the corresponding image. All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct photographer credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. (Images: Supplied by SCTIE) Ms Vanessa Gounden, Marketing Coordinator of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), Ms. Kelly Smith, Sales Manager of Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate & Mr Tsepang Magubane, Graduate: Investment & Projects of SCTIE Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate 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. The KZN South Coast is poised for major investment with the launch of the national Small Harbours Development Programme, which includes Port Shepstone among its locations. According to South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), this catalytic project is anticipated to unlock the maritime and logistics sectors while driving growth across tourism, trade, and property development on the KZN South Coast. For more information please contact: South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) Cell: 039 682 7944 Email: vanessa@sctie.co.za
Investment Boom for KZN South Coast with Plans for Port Shepstone Harbour
PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Attention 06 November 2025 Investment Boom for KZN South Coast with Plans for Port Shepstone Harbour The KZN South Coast is set to become a leading maritime and investment destination, with Port Shepstone announced as a beneficiary of South Africa’s landmark Small Harbours Development Programme. The national initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), got underway with a stakeholder engagement session in Port Shepstone on 31 October.The launch event was attended by Deputy Minister of the DPWI, Sihle Zikalala, KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Musa Zondi, as well as representatives from South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), business, and civil society. A Strategic Opportunity for Investment and Tourism Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE, welcomed the development, saying: “The Port Shepstone Small Craft Harbour represents one of the most significant infrastructure investments in our region’s history. This catalytic project will not only unlock the maritime and logistics sectors but also drive growth across tourism, trade, and property development. For investors, it signals long-term confidence in the KZN South Coast’s potential as a world-class ocean economy destination.” He added that the harbour aligns with SCTIE’s vision of positioning the South Coast as a key economic hub: “With its ideal location, connectivity, and natural coastal assets, Port Shepstone is perfectly placed to become the maritime gateway of the KZN South Coast. This development complements our existing tourism assets, from our Blue Flag beaches and dive sites to our hinterland and adventure experiences, creating a resilient regional economy.” Catalyst for Coastal Growth Aligned with Operation Phakisa – government’s blueprint for unlocking the ocean economy – the Small Harbours Development Programme reinforces national priorities under the Strategic Infrastructure Programme (SIP) and National Infrastructure Plan, ensuring that the country’s 2,800-kilometre coastline becomes a shared economic frontier. The Port Shepstone Small Craft Harbour has been designated a Tier 1 catalytic site, with Port Edward and Hibberdene Tier 2 sites. The Port Shepstone site is ideally located less than 1km southeast of the town’s CBD and Oribi Plaza Shopping Centre, placing it at the heart of commerce, transport, and future trade growth. The programme’s triple-stage framework – spanning feasibility, planning and design, and construction – is set to drive inclusive economic activity and create new opportunities across sectors. Reports indicate that during construction alone, the harbour project is projected to contribute R4.41 billion in additional business sales, R1.85 billion to GDP, and generate over 5,800 jobs within the KwaZulu-Natal economy. “This is a turning point for the people of Ugu and Port Shepstone,” the DPWI said in a statement. “Through the Small Harbours Development Programme, we are correcting historical imbalances and building a foundation for inclusive, sustainable economic growth. For every berth completed, a town reclaims its coastal identity. South Africa’s blue economy is no longer a distant vision but a tangible tide lifting previously overlooked shores.” Now’s the Time: Visit, Invest, Thrive in KZN South Coast! Find out more about these and other investment options by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. To find out more about 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. 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. Follow the hashtags #nowisthetime #nowisthetimetoinvest /ENDS Get in Touch Find out more by downloading the Explore KZN South Coast app; visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. 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 mongezi@sctie.co.za or visit www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za. Follow the hashtags #unlockmore #unlockmoregrowth /ENDS Please note the image credit is included beneath the corresponding image. All images are complimentary for media use, provided the correct photographer credit is included and the images are published in conjunction with the content supplied. Port Shepstone Lighthouse Port Shepstone Beachfront Port Shepstone Town Port Shepstone Beach Port Shepstone Mr Sihle Zikalala, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure 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