Durban — The MTN8 final between AmaZulu FC and Orlando Pirates held at the Moses Mabhida Stadium and the Gcwalisa Spring Picnic held next door at the Kings Park Stadium were a welcome boost to Durban’s economy.
eThekwini Municipality mayor Mxolisi Kaunda welcomed the successful hosting of major sporting and entertainment events in the city over the past two weekends.
Kaunda said it was a good indicator as the city prepared for the upcoming festive season.
The mayor was commenting after the MTN8 final and Gcwalisa Spring Picnic on Saturday, which attracted thousands of visitors. This made a positive impact on the city’s economy and tourism sector.
Kaunda said: “The hosting of such big events in the city has both a positive social and economic impact for Durban. We believe that sports and leisure do not only expand the economy, but have the potential to build unity and promote positive change.”
He said that the handing over of the certificate of King Misuzulu last weekend, which was also held at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, indicated that the city was capable of hosting major events.
“We will continue to capitalise on events to attract more visitors to the city. Hosting major events helps to market our world-class facilities and the city as Africa’s major events and investment capital. We are proud to showcase the diversity of Durban and the wide array of unique experiences on offer,” Kaunda said.
Municipal spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela said that about 74 000 visitors descended on the city over the weekend for the two major events, with a projected direct spend of R10.7 million. This included spending by visitors at restaurants, hotels and non-hotels, takeaways, taxi services, airlines, land transport, shopping malls, and spending at other local businesses. A projected contribution to the city’s gross domestic product was R21.4m.
He said the estimated number of jobs created was 4 200. This included additional chefs, waiters and cleaning services, security, parking assistants, informal traders inside and outside the stadium, shops (including clothing, grocery stores, and pharmacies) as well as maintenance staff.
He also said that estimates indicate that of the 54 000 soccer match attendees, 40% were from Durban, 38% from KwaZulu-Natal and 22% from outside the province.
Mayisela added that enhanced security was in place at both events, with law enforcement agencies on hand to ensure the safety of visitors. There were no major incidents reported; however, arrests for the sale of fake tickets were made.
Daily News