The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Mr. Thamsanqa Ntuli, along with the MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Rev. Musa Zondi, has warmly welcomed the transformative partnership between the Province of KZN and NAVIGO - Italy’s leading yachting industry cluster comprising 400 member companies. They expressed this during the KZN-NAVIGO Boat Building and Yachting Industry Roundtable, held today, 15 July 2025, at the Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre in eThekwini.

MEC Zondi described the strategic partnership as a convergence of a shared vision to grow inclusive economies, embrace innovation and position KwaZulu-Natal as a destination of choice for tourism, investment, and maritime excellence. He added that NAVIGO’s interest in KwaZulu-Natal was a significant endorsement of the province’s strategic vision to become a premier destination for tourism and maritime excellence. “What we are envisioning together is not just economic growth, but growth with purpose. Growth that upskills young people. Growth that partners with local businesses. Growth that places KwaZulu-Natal on the global map as a yachting and refit destination - supported by our deep-water ports, SEZs, air connectivity through King Shaka International Airport, and our investor-ready environment,” said MEC Zondi.

Premier Ntuli emphasised that the partnership with NAVIGO sends a clear message to the world - that KwaZulu-Natal was ready to take its place as a continental maritime leader, not only in ports and logistics, but also in design, technology, skills and sustainability. “The agreement we sign today reflects our intent to co-brand, co-develop, and co-market high-value vessels globally, while jointly investing in research, recycling and sustainable marine technology,” the Premier remarked.

He added: “We are repositioning KwaZulu-Natal as a hub of ocean-based industrialisation - from superyacht manufacturing and coastal tourism to aquaculture, port logistics and marine component innovation.” NAVIGO President Ms. Katia Balducci expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that they looked forward to a fruitful collaboration with the Province of KwaZulu-Natal.