KZN Tourism and the KZN Film Commission have been merged to form the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA).

The newly-appointed MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa K. Zondi, announced the creation of the new entity earlier this week along with other mergers taking place. The mergers form part of a strategic initiative aimed at streamlining operations, enhancing service delivery, eliminating duplication, and creating efficiencies within the department.

Mr Sibusiso Gumbi has been appointed as interim CEO of the entity.

According to the department, KZNTAFA will focus on marketing and promoting the tourism and audio-visual industries, facilitating sector development, creating sustainable growth and job opportunities, and addressing historical imbalances in infrastructure, skills, and resource distribution.

Tourism Update reports that TKZN’s 2024/25 Annual Performance Plan (APP) detailed that the merger would assist in driving positive media coverage of the province.

“In partnership with the KZN Film Commission and other relevant departments, TKZN will continue to explore new and innovative ways to profile Destination KZN through partnerships with mega events, TV, film and music productions,” the APP states.