THE Durban July Experience is forecast to inject R130 million (US$7,2 million) to the economy of Ethekwini.
The event will attract up to 48 000 attendees, amassing R65 million in direct spending and creating 1 500 jobs. eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda disclosed the figures ahead of the event set for this weekend.
The mayor reassured visitors of a safe and entertaining Durban July. Kaunda said law enforcement agencies will be deployed to strategic areas. Approximately 100 Metro police officers will be deployed around the Greyville area.
“In addition, Metro Police’s Public Order Policing Unit, which is trained in crowd control, is on high alert to ensure an incident-free event,” Kaunda said.
Meanwhile, Member of the Executive Committee (MEC) for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, Siboniso Duma, has declared KwaZulu-Natal as the ideal destination for holidaying during this winter season.
The department, in partnership with its entities, Tourism KZN, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, launched the winter tourism campaign in Hluhluwe, Hilltop Camp over the weekend.
This campaign seeks to promote KZN’s finest destinations that can be visited during the winter season. Hluhluwe Hilltop, Didima Resort in the mountains of Ukhahlamba and Midmar Dam are some of the hidden gems in the province.
Delivering the keynote speech, Acting Deputy Director General: Sector Development and Business Governance, Fikiswa Pupuma, said: “We also know safety remains a concern for our visitors; that’s why we continue to work with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure our tourism destinations are safe.”
Durban July is a prestigious horse racing event held in South Africa. Durban July is regarded as the greatest racing, fashion and entertainment extravaganza on the African continent.
It is widely believed there is no other horse race in Africa with as much history behind it as the Durban July Handicap. The racing event started way back in 1897, growing in its following and prestige each year since.
Today, racing and betting enthusiasts, as well as fearless fashionistas, won’t miss it for anything. It really is South Africa’s premier horse racing event and currently offers a purse of R3.5 million!
– CAJ News
