The KZN South Coast is placing increasing focus on rural and township tourism by adding promising new SMMEs to the region’s Buy Local campaign.

The South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) said while significant strides were being made in various key investment sectors, there was massive potential yet to be uncovered for tourism beyond the coast. The enterprise recently added two new members – Monate Outdoor Activities and Kasified Eksperience – to its regional Buy Local campaign, a national government initiative that encourages local business support.

“There is so much investment potential in the township economy and we are so happy to celebrate the inclusion of new offerings such as the Kasified Eksperience,” said Phelisa Mangcu, CEO of SCTIE.

“Likewise, our rural tourism offerings are showing incredible promise, with the tourism trends focused on nature-based adventure activities such as those offered by Monate Outdoor Activities. By joining our Buy Local campaign, the members will receive extensive support in the form of networking, marketing, and collaborations, further strengthening the sector.”

Monate Outdoor Activities offers hiking trails, camping, and outdoor adventures with township packages on offer. In addition to extending the tourism offering, the business is creating impactful employment opportunities for local tour guides.  

“We started in March 2020 and have continued to grow, offering deals on hikes, outdoor activities and everything from township tours to nightlife,” said Monate Outdoor Activities Founder, Mbongeni Mthembu.

Meanwhile Kasified Eksperience focuses on ‘shisanyama’ (flame-grilled meat) and local events in the township of Gamalakhe. The business also recently launched Kasified Extreme, which offers outdoor activities such as quad biking, paintball and biking trails.  

The Buy Local campaign continues to support the rural sector’s inclusion in the mainstream tourism economy by developing platforms and business connections for SMMEs such as those between crafters, farmers, and growers, with retailers.