This morning, 28 August 2025 the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi, addressed the Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA) 2025, held at Thembela Venue in uMhlathuze Local Municipality. Gathering under the theme 'Tourism and Infrastructure Investment: Driving Economic Transformation and Enhancing Community Well-Being,' the event was also attended by the KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Mr. Thami Ntuli, who delivered the keynote address, emphasising KZN’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for tourism and investment

The Forum aims to attract investment into Africa’s tourism sector, create strategic partnerships, and showcase the continent’s potential. It also serves as a platform where investors, developers and government stakeholders can connect, share insights and drive sustainable growth in the tourism industry.

"Today’s gathering brings together the most important voices in investment and development. You - the investors, financiers, and business leaders - are the engines of growth. Your choices, your capital, and your partnerships will shape not only the future of tourism in KwaZulu-Natal, but the broader trajectory of our economy," said MEC Zondi. He assured investors that the KwaZulu-Natal Government is an enabler, not an obstacle. "We recognise that investors require certainty and support. The Government of KwaZulu-Natal is committed to being an active partner in facilitating investment, he said

MEC Zondi emphasised that KwaZulu-Natal is positioning itself as the engine room of Africa’s tourism economy - a place where world-class infrastructure, cultural richness, and natural beauty converge to create unparalleled investment opportunities. He further extended a direct invitation to investors, encouraging them to explore the abundant opportunities within KwaZulu-Natal’s thriving tourism landscape. He urged them to engage with officials from the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority and commit to partnerships that would not only generate returns, but also leave a lasting legacy of transformation in KZN communities.

"The time for spectatorship is over. The time for decisive investment is now. The province of KwaZulu-Natal stands ready to partner with you - to turn opportunities into outcomes, and strategies into success stories," said the MEC.