Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal — The Alfred Duma Local Municipality came alive as Executive Mayor Cllr. Zama Sibisi officially welcomed dignitaries, delegates, and exhibitors to the 4th Annual Township and Village Tourism Intra-Trade Conference, held at the Donga La Boutique Hotel in Ladysmith from 13–14 November 2025.
The Mayor opened the floor with words of pride and gratitude, expressing how deeply honoured the municipality was to host such a prestigious gathering of tourism leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs.
“We are truly privileged to welcome the Honourable Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Makhotso Magdeline Sotyu, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, and other distinguished guests,” said Mayor Sibisi. “Your presence here in Ladysmith demonstrates a shared commitment to transforming township and village tourism into a powerful vehicle for inclusive growth.”
He emphasized that the conference — hosted in partnership with the South African Township and Village Tourism Organisation (SATOVITO) — is more than just an annual event; it is a catalyst for sustainable economic development that places local communities at the forefront of South Africa’s tourism economy.
As the host municipality, Alfred Duma’s leadership reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for tourism investment, capacity building, and public-private partnerships that strengthen the local economy.
