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uMhlathuze Set to Host Tourism Investment Forum Africa 2025, Showcasing KZN's Growing Potential uMhlathuze Set to Host Tourism Investment Forum Africa 2025, Showcasing KZN's Growing Potential

The City of uMhlathuze, located in KwaZulu-Natal, has been announced as the host for the highly anticipated Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA) 2025. This prestigious event, scheduled for 26th to 27th August 2025 at the Thembela Events Venue in Richards Bay, will bring together leading investors, policymakers, and tourism stakeholders from across Africa and beyond. The forum aims to foster impactful discussions and partnerships while driving sustainable economic growth in Africa’s tourism and infrastructure sectors.

Held under the theme "Tourism and Infrastructure Investment: Driving Economic Transformation and Enhancing Community Well-Being,” TIFA 2025 is poised to spotlight the immense opportunities within Africa’s tourism industry while promoting lesser-known regions as attractive destinations for investment and business events.

Strategic Vision for uMhlathuze and KwaZulu-Natal

The selection of uMhlathuze, a key port city in KwaZulu-Natal, underscores its growing reputation as a dynamic hub for trade, tourism, and investment. The city is home to the Port of Richards Bay, one of Africa’s largest harbors, and serves as a gateway to the culturally rich and ecologically diverse regions of Zululand and Maputaland. Hosting TIFA will provide a platform to showcase the city’s infrastructure, tourism potential, and ongoing investment projects to a global audience.

Mayor Cllr Xolani Ngwezi emphasized the city’s commitment to leveraging TIFA 2025 as a catalyst for local economic development. “We intend to drive economic growth while positioning our port city and region as a competitive hub for export trade and investment. With various investment projects in the pipeline, we aim to unlock the global competitiveness of our region, not only for trade but also for tourism,” he stated. He also highlighted the city’s growing popularity as a cruise ship destination, further solidifying its position as a key tourism player in the region.

Provincial Support for Economic Growth

Backing the event, Sibusiso Gumbi, CEO of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, reaffirmed the province’s commitment to the forum. “This initiative aligns with our strategic mandate to position and promote the province as a desirable tourism destination and film location. Hosting the event will not only create opportunities for access to capital but also elevate lesser-known regions and cities as attractive investment locations and business events destinations,” Gumbi noted.

Investment Opportunities at the Forefront

Highlighting the city’s potential, Miller Matola, CEO of Millvest, described uMhlathuze as a prime destination for discerning investors. “In line with the ethos of TIFA as a global platform for local economic development action, the city of uMhlathuze and the Port of Richards Bay’s infrastructure and tourism potential present immense opportunities for driving inclusive economic growth while creating good returns for investors,” he commented.

The forum will provide a platform to showcase uMhlathuze’s flagship investment projects and initiatives, with site visits planned to highlight the city’s catalytic projects. Delegates will also get a firsthand look at the tourism potential of the Zulu Kingdom, from cultural heritage sites to natural attractions.

Enhanced Accessibility and Hospitality

Richards Bay’s accessibility is another strength that makes uMhlathuze an ideal host for TIFA 2025. With direct flights from Johannesburg and a range of accommodation options in the area, the city is well-prepared to welcome international and regional delegates. Attendees can expect a seamless experience, with the city’s hospitality sector ensuring a comfortable and productive stay during the conference.

Driving Regional Development

TIFA 2025 is expected to raise awareness about KwaZulu-Natal’s growing economic potential, promoting the region as a key player in Africa’s tourism and trade sectors. The event will help position uMhlathuze as a leading destination for investment, showcasing its ability to foster sustainable development while creating opportunities for local communities.

For African travel professionals, TIFA 2025 offers a unique opportunity to engage with key industry stakeholders, explore new partnerships, and contribute to the continent’s growing tourism economy. By putting the spotlight on uMhlathuze, the forum is set to attract future investments that will drive transformation and growth, ensuring that KwaZulu-Natal continues to thrive as one of South Africa’s fastest-growing economic hubs.

As the countdown to August 2025 begins, the City of uMhlathuze is ready to take center stage, offering a compelling mix of trade, tourism, and investment opportunities that promise to make TIFA 2025 a landmark event for the region and the continent as a whole.