PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Strategic Location

• Situated within the Mkhuze Game Reserve, part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
• Approximately 120 km north of St. Lucia, accessible via the N2 and R22, with entry through Ophansi Gate.
• Falls under the uMkhanyakude District Municipality.

Project Overview

• Existing resort infrastructure includes:
  • 2 × 6-bed cottages
  • 4 × 2-bed chalets
  • 5 × 4-bed chalets
  • 6 × 2-bed huts
  • 10 × 2-bed safari tents
  • 3 × 4-bed safari tents
  • 1 × 8-bed bush camp
• Main complex with reception, tourist shop, offices, boardroom, and fuel station (petrol & diesel).
• Concession offered: 20 years (build, operate, maintain, transfer).

Development Vision & Objectives

• Support iSimangaliso’s commercialisation strategy through PPP agreements.
• Refurbish and modernize Mantuma Resort to attract local and international visitors.
• Boost tourism economy while safeguarding conservation mandates.
• Ensure investor participation aligns with National Treasury’s PPP Toolkit and PFMA regulations.

Scope

• Refurbish, maintain, and operate the Mantuma Resort.
• Enhance accommodation units, visitor amenities, and supporting infrastructure.
• Introduce sustainable tourism facilities to optimize economic and conservation outcomes.

Benefits

• 80 jobs created during construction, 60 permanent jobs during operations.
• Revenue-sharing to support conservation management of the Park.
• Boosts local tourism, skills development, and community partnerships.
• Optimisation of infrastructure and attraction of private sector expertise.
• Mandatory community partnership ensures shared socio-economic benefits.

Project Value

• Estimated investment: R40 – R80 million.
• Concession period: 20 years.

Timeline

• August 2025: Feasibility study submitted to National Treasury for approval.
• October 2025: Draft RFP and Draft PPP Agreement to be submitted for TA:IIA approval.
• February 2026: RFP issued and opportunity advertised.

Investment Invitation

• Open to investors under a 20-year PPP concession model.
• Opportunity to refurbish and operate an existing tourism facility in a premier conservation area.
• Revenue-sharing and community partnership obligations included.