Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal — Taking the podium at the 4th Annual Township & Village Tourism Intra-Trade Conference, Cllr. Inkosi Shabalala, Executive Mayor of the uThukela District Municipality, delivered an inspiring address that underscored the region’s rich natural heritage, cultural diversity, and immense potential for tourism investment.
Mayor Shabalala proudly celebrated uThukela’s status as home to some of South Africa’s most breathtaking attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Mountains, known for their majestic peaks, ancient San rock art, and unmatched hiking trails. He also highlighted the uThukela River, a national treasure that runs through the district, providing lifeblood to communities and inspiration to generations of visitors.
“The Drakensberg and the uThukela River are not just landmarks — they are part of South Africa’s soul and our global story,” said Mayor Shabalala. “They define who we are as a district, rich in history, beauty, and resilience.”
The Mayor commended the organisers for hosting the event at Donga La Boutique Hotel, a venue proudly owned and operated by a black woman entrepreneur, noting that such milestones reflect the transformation and empowerment that the tourism sector must continue to pursue.
He also shared exciting news that two international groups will soon visit the region to explore Ilenge Mountain, one of uThukela’s hidden gems being developed as a premier ecotourism destination through the uThukela Development Agency.
“This is proof that our investment in local tourism infrastructure and community development is paying off,” Shabalala remarked. “We are positioning uThukela as a must-visit destination for both domestic and international travellers.”
The Mayor spoke passionately about ongoing projects, including the Drakensberg Cable Car initiative, which aims to create new opportunities for adventure tourism while generating employment and attracting foreign investment. He emphasized the district’s vision to promote inclusive growth, ensuring that local communities directly benefit from tourism-led development.
Beyond the iconic Drakensberg range, uThukela offers a wealth of attractions for visitors — from the Battlefields Route, rich with Anglo-Boer War history, to the Spioenkop Nature Reserve, Weenen Game Reserve, and numerous township tourism experiences showcasing authentic Zulu culture, crafts, and cuisine.
“Our mission is clear,” concluded Shabalala. “We want to make uThukela not only a gateway to KwaZulu-Natal’s heritage but a hub of sustainable tourism that creates jobs, empowers our people, and celebrates our unique identity.”
