Flood-hit eThekwini Municipality to spend R8.3m on parties, events

The eThekwini Municipality’s Business Support, Markets and Tourism Unit wants to spend R8.3 million on parties, events, and R1.37 million on a ‘flood benefit concert’ over the next three months, reportedly.

The eThekwini Municipality is still working on fixing infrastructure that was damaged by the April floods which was worsened by the second round of floods that hit mostly areas under the metro last weekend.

ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY TO SPEND R8.3 MILLION ON EVENTS 

The Democratic Alliance in eThekwini says it agreed to support only hosting the Ironman 70.3 in October 2022 and the Durban July. 

The party said both the events have proven economic benefits for eThekwini and a tangible impact on the city.

The DA reportedly voted against the R1.37 million Flood Benefit Concert, R900 000 for Fact Durban Rocks, R600 000 for the South African Music Conference and the Mother of all Parties, R650 000 for Any Given Sunday, R400 000 for Ekasi Durban July Stakeholder Hosting and R1.8 million for extra events around the Durban July.

“EThekwini is in a difficult financial position. The flood damage prior to the second round of flooding was predicted by the Treasury to be at R3.9 billion. With no additional funding commitments from the national government, the road ahead is going to be long and difficult. 

“Every spare cent must be spent on looking after vulnerable people, restoring essential services and rebuilding infrastructure.”

DA

The party also said for years, the unholy alliance between the ruling party, Durban Tourism, and well-connected tourism operators has seen millions of public money wasted on frivolous events and parties. 

“Ordinary people who rely on tourism for their income have been left frustrated and disillusioned as the Durban Tourism processes continue to prioritise those who are well-connected within the ruling party.” 

DA

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