PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Strategic Location

• Located in Sodwana Bay, within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site, KwaZulu-Natal.
• 20 minutes from the town of Mbazwana in the uMkhanyakude District Municipality.
• Recognised as one of the world’s top ten dive destinations, offering beach and marine tourism opportunities.

Project Overview

• Existing facilities include:
  • 10 × 4-bed log cabins
  • 9 × 6-bed cabins
  • 64 campsites (with/without power points)
  • 15 ablution blocks
  • Reception office, housekeeping facilities
  • Recreational fishing and activity support services
• Concession offered: 30 years (build, operate, maintain, transfer).

Development Vision & Objectives

• Align with iSimangaliso’s commercialisation strategy for tourism through PPP agreements.
• Redevelop facilities to modern standards while expanding tourism offerings.
• Ensure compliance with National Treasury PPP Toolkit and PFMA regulations.
• Balance tourism growth with conservation and community participation.

Scope

• Replace existing log cabins with newly constructed accommodation units.
• Construct a restaurant to expand hospitality offerings.
• Refurbish existing fuel station facilities.
• Option for investors to develop a hotel within the resort precinct.

Benefits

• 150 jobs during construction and 80 permanent operational jobs.
• Revenue-sharing model supports conservation management of iSimangaliso Park.
• Strengthens local economy via procurement, skills development, and training.
• Community gains from mandatory partnerships.
• Attracts private expertise in eco-tourism and resort management.

Project Value

• Estimated investment: R125 million+.
• Concession period: 30 years.

Timeline

• Nov 2025: Feasibility study approval by National Treasury confirming viability.
• Mar 2026: Pre-qualification of bidders (RFQ issued, evaluated, and shortlisted).
• Jun 2026: Draft RFP and PPP Agreement submitted for TA:IIA approval.
• Sep 2026: RFP issued and advertised.

Investment Invitation

• Open to investors seeking long-term eco-tourism and resort opportunities under a 30-year PPP concession.
• Scope includes redevelopment, expansion, and possible new hotel component.
• Mandatory community participation and conservation-linked revenue sharing included.