PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Attention
18 September 2024

KZN South Coast to Host Indigenous Games Celebrating South Africa’s Rich Cultural Heritage

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in collaboration with the KZN Indigenous Games Council, Ugu District Municipality and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, is excited to announce the hosting of the 2024 Indigenous Games from 27 to 29 September at the Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre. This highly anticipated event will not only celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of South Africa but also showcase the immense talent that has positioned KwaZulu-Natal as a dominant force in these traditional games.

The Indigenous Games have long been a vital part of South African heritage, passed down through generations, reflecting the country’s rich history. The event is a representation of the nation’s diversity bringing together communities. Currently nine indigenous games are played at a national level including Khokho, Induku, Igqathu, Amagenda, Imlabalana, Drie Stokkies, Dibeke, Incuva, and Jukskei.

This year’s event introduces the exciting All-Africa initiative further broadening the scope of the games and celebrating the KZN region’s dominance in the national Indigenous Games. KwaZulu-Natal has been declared overall champions for an impressive 10 consecutive years, solidifying its place as a leader in preserving and excelling in indigenous sporting traditions.

The Indigenous Games will officially kick off with the opening ceremony on 27 September 2024, with the games scheduled from 12:00 to 17:00 that day. On 28 September 2024, competitions will run from 09:00 to 17:00, followed by a closing ceremony to celebrate the winners and participants.

Hosting this event on the KZN South Coast presents numerous benefits for the region, not only by promoting cultural heritage but also by driving tourism and economic growth. The event will attract visitors from across the country and beyond, providing a platform for local businesses and hospitality establishments to benefit from increased tourism and investment opportunities. The South Coast’s scenic beauty and diverse attractions further enhance the appeal of this historic event.

Deborah Ludick, Manager of Finance, HR and Administration at South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) expressed her excitement about the event and the positive impact it will have on the region:

“We are thrilled to host the Indigenous Games on the KZN South Coast, an event that not only highlights our country’s rich cultural diversity but also brings significant benefits to our local economy. The games will attract visitors to our stunning region, offering them the chance to experience the beauty and vibrancy of the South Coast. This event aligns perfectly with our goal of promoting cultural heritage while supporting the local tourism industry and we are looking forward to welcoming participants and spectators alike.”

The Indigenous Games provide a unique opportunity for locals and visitors to engage with South Africa’s heritage, promoting social cohesion while celebrating the sporting skills passed down through centuries. The KZN South Coast with its blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity and modern amenities, is the perfect backdrop for this important national event.

For more information on the Indigenous Games or to plan your visit to the KZN South Coast, visit www.visitkznsouthcoast.co.za.

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Keep updated by visiting the KZN South Coast website; following South Coast Tourism on Facebook; South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise on YouTube; @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; and South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise on LinkedIn. And click here to check out previous SCTIE press releases. Watch why KZN South Coast is a top tourism destination here. Check out the latest Southern Explorer Route Guide for the KZN South Coast here.

Follow the hashtags #uncover #uncoverkznsouthcoast #uncoveradventure #kznsouthcoast

 

About KZN South Coast

Known as the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom, the KZN South Coast stretches 120 kilometres from Scottburgh to Port Edward and inland to Harding. Here, the spirit of adventure can be discovered among the many cultural experiences, as well as the 35 nature trails and 58 beaches, ideal for activities like river rafting, abseiling, suspension bridges, paintball, surfing, SUP, canoeing, beach horse rides, shark cage diving and free diving. Nicknamed ‘The Golf Coast’, there are 11 golf courses on the KZN South Coast ranging in difficulty, with endless hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails for more rugged excursions. Promoting sustainability, the KZN South Coast has a growing agri-tourism sector that offers world-class produce and hosts tours and excursions. The region boasts several permanently managed Blue Flag beaches and is home to some of the world’s top diving sites, Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. The originality continues with the annual Sardine Run, coined the #GreatestShoalonEarth, which is the largest biomass migration on earth and a marvel to witness. The region’s many nature reserves are inhabited by indigenous birds and wildlife, and it holds the title of ‘smallest desert on earth’, The Red Desert in Port Edward. The KZN South Coast is a fast-emerging MICE destination which has played host to several high-profile events including The Bike Fest, The Conservation Symposium, The Ocean Festival, Uvukile Gospel Festival, Ugu Jazz, Ugu International Film Festival, and the South Coast Fever MTB & Trail Run Series.

 

Issued by:
South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE)

Contact Number: 039 682 7944
Email:  info@sctie.co.za