New Enyokeni Royal Precinct: A R140 million boost for tourism and job creation

The construction of the R140 million Enyokeni Royal Precinct for the annual Reed Dance ceremony, which is presided over by the Zulu king, will boost Zululand tourism and create business and job opportunities.

This was revealed by KwaZulu-Natal Public Works and Infrastructure MEC Martin Meyer and Sports, Arts and Culture MEC Mtomuhle Khawula, who conducted the last inspection of the project on Tuesday before Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli officially handed it over to King Misuzulu kaZwelithini before the Reed Dance ceremony in September.

The MECs’ oversight visit was part of the Reed Dance preparation, where more than 20,000 virgin maidens present reeds to the king as part of the celebration of keeping themselves pure.

MEC Meyer, whose department is responsible for all Public Works projects in the province, said he was happy that the project will be finished on time to host this year’s event, adding that the precinct would not only cater for the Reed Dance event but will be a draw card for tourism, which in turn, will create business and job opportunities.

“I hope to see B&Bs coming up in the area because of this iconic building. This will be a major draw card for international tourists who will come and visit eNyokeni Palace because of this building, which is our biggest project ever as the Government of Provincial Unity. We are also glad that this will generate income for the local communities,” said Meyer.

Khawula mentioned that his department will save significantly on costs previously spent on marquees and toilets for dignitaries, as the venue will now provide catering and sanitation.

The MEC said the venue would not only benefit the Reed Dance event, but also that performing arts and community events will be held there.

“I will meet the king soon to get all calendar events for this year, and I can see more traditional events being redirected to this place,” said Khawula.

He added that the Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie, will also come before the building is handed over to the king.

The dome-design auditorium has a seating capacity of 2,000 people, a stage, changing rooms for artists, and ablution facilities.

willem.phungula@inl.co.za