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eThekwini Municipality Open Dialogue: GO!Durban

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Councillor Ntando Khuzwayo, acting on behalf of the Mayor of the eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Zandile Gumede, officially opened the dialogue between GO!Durban and business with a special tour of the first sections of the new public transport infrastructure that is nearing completion.

Dubbed the Hambanathi (Come with us) Experience, 30 captains of industry and businesses met with officials and politicians spearheading the new public transport network, and were taken on a tour of the first dedicated bus route currently nearing completion.

“We have taken industry leaders on a tour to demonstrate how the new transport system within our City paves the way for economic growth and development,” said Cllr Khuzwayo. “There are many examples from across the globe as to how transport has transformed economies, and our new transport plans in GO!Durban are no different.”

Inviting business and industry leaders to join forces with government in a combined vision, Cllr Khuzwayo said “Exciting times are ahead, as the City of Durban shifts up a gear to deliver on our promise to make this the most caring and liveable City in Africa by 2030.”

“As government we can only create the policy framework and foundation for the economy to develop. But it is through your innovation, influence and direction that the economy is able to thrive and expand. So we are inviting industry and business to join us as we plan and implement for this brighter future for all.”

“This may be through independent ideas and projects, or public private partnerships, which, history has shown, are able to infuse a project of this magnitude with innovation and improved operational efficiency, accountability, cost effectiveness, financial efficiencies and productivity.”

To further illustrate the success of private public partnerships Danny Hattingh, Business Development Manager at PRASA gave an overview of the plans to improve commuter rail and opportunities that are inherent in this, while Michael Deighton, MD of Tongaat Hulett Developments gave a testimonial on the success of the company’s ongoing partnerships with government and the value these add to developing opportunities for business in the City.

Cllr Khuzwayo reminded the gathering that world-over cities are recognising that transport is a key instrument to a better urban future and an enabler of societal and economic growth and development. “We acknowledge that an improved public transport system for Durban will be the lifeblood of the socio-economic development of our City.”

“The Mayor’s office is faced with many key decisions impacting the people of eThekwini, and ultimately its goal is to create a City of opportunity for our people,” he said calling for more collaboration between industry, business and government, and giving her commitment to prioritising transport in the City and that key decisions be made promptly to moving delivery on the GO!Durban project.

The business leaders were taken on a tour to experience how the City’s new transport vision will support and possibly lead to further growth of the local economy. The tour enabled them to experience the current transport challenges many of their employees faced, how public transport has already begun to transform, and were given a glimpse of how the new bus rapid transport (dedicated bus lanes) and improved fleet and operations will work towards improving the local economy.

“The conversation with business will enable us to appreciate the challenges we as government and private enterprise face together,” explained Cllr Khuzwayo. “We will be able to demonstrate what we have already achieved, so that we can align our goals, and develop a shared vision for the betterment of all.”

Cllr Khuzwayo pointed out that the City was open to proposals that were innovative and economically viable for the development of precincts around the various GO!Durban stations and linked areas, from businesses and industry.  “We welcome suggestions and ideas on how the new transport system could best serve the economic interests of the businesses and industry in the City, and how we can collaborate with a joint vision for all.”

GO!Durban plan to host a number of “Hambanathi Experiences” with business and industry leaders going forward. For more information go to www.godurban.co.za or emailinfo@godurban.co.za.

Durbanite
Author: Durbanite

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Attractions

Splashy Fen 2025: An Inspiring Long Weekend of Music, Magic, and Memories in the Drakensberg

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Splashy Fen Music Festival has officially wrapped, and by all accounts, the 2025 edition was the most magical one yet. From the moment the gates opened on Thursday, 17 April to the last note played on Sunday night, 8,000 festival-goers soaked up four glorious days of sunshine, music, and connection in the heart of the Southern Drakensberg.

After a few days of pre-festival rain, the weather turned just in time to welcome fans to South Africa’s friendliest music festival. The sunshine held strong throughout the weekend, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable Easter celebration filled with laughter, dancing, and community.

A SOLD-OUT FESTIVAL FROM DAY ONE

By Thursday evening, over 5,500 happy campers had already made their way into the scenic Splashy Fen farm, with the festival officially reaching full capacity the day before the gates even opened. The 2025 edition was officially opened by Cllr. T.N. Jojozi, Deputy Mayor of the Harry Gwala District Municipality, who welcomed guests on behalf of the Harry Gwala Development Agency.

Thursday night kicked off with the first wave of live performances and set the tone for the weekend.

From there, the lineup only got hotter.

DAYS OF MUSIC AND MAGIC

Friday and Saturday were packed with showstopping performances across the multiple stages. Local heroes like Ard Matthews, Hot Water, Veranda Panda, and Prime Circle brought the heat, while the Main Stage turned electric with international artists including the UK’s Youngr, a surprise performance from Casey Lowery, Ireland’s Darren Kiely, and Canada’s Neon Dreams.

Mafikizolo delivered a legendary Saturday night set that brought thousands to their feet, and GoodLuck closed out the evening with a high-energy performance that had the whole crowd bouncing.

Away from the stages, festival-goers enjoyed the full Splashy experience: sunrise yoga, trail runs, live art, craft workshops, and plenty of family-friendly fun. The popular Kids Zone was buzzing with activity, and the Saturday afternoon Splashy Parade was a visual feast of stilt-walkers, dragons, fire breathers, and whimsical characters.

At the Corona River Stage, guests kicked back in the sun to chilled tunes by the water, while a bustling craft market and food court offered up everything from gourmet bites to handmade treasures.

A SUNDAY TO REMEMBER

Easter Sunday was pure joy. The day began with a peaceful morning service hosted by Red Frogs SA at the tranquil Treehouse Stage, followed by a fun-filled Easter egg hunt for the little ones—complete with games, giggles, and surprise eggs from the Easter Bunny herself.

Music lovers made their way to the Acoustic Stage for the much-loved Legends of the Fen showcase. Featuring iconic acts like Cinema, Perez, and more, the session reminded everyone why Splashy Fen holds such a special place in South Africa’s music history.

As the sun dipped behind the Drakensberg mountains, the Main Stage roared to life for one final night of performances, closing out the weekend with soaring vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and thunderous applause.

“Our legs are sore, our voices are gone, but our hearts? FULL,” read a Monday morning post from Splashy Fen’s official social media page. “Shoutout to every artist who brought the fire at Main Stage last night, and every fan who screamed every word. What a way to end #Splashy2025!”

THE BEST ONE YET

With four full days of world-class music, family-friendly fun, and community connection in one of the most beautiful festival locations in the world, Splashy Fen 2025 has earned its title as the best one yet.

For more information and to stay up to date on 2026 tickets and artist announcements, visit www.splashyfen.co.za or follow @splashyfenfest on Instagram and Facebook.

Shelley
Author: Shelley

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Gordon’s & CK Experiences presents: Mango Groove at Chris Saunders Park

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Get ready for the ultimate family outing! South Africa’s legendary musical icons, Mango Groove will, light up the stage at Chris Saunders Park, on Friday 2 May, kicking off at 4pm.

This isn’t just a concert; it’s a fantastic opportunity to create lasting family memories filled with incredible music, delicious food, and exciting activities for everyone.

Join Mango Groove as they bring you the iconic hits that have been the soundtrack to South African life since the 80s. From the moment the first note drops, you’ll be swept away by their smash hits “Special Star,” “Dance Some More,” and all the timeless classics that have defined generations. This is your chance to experience the magic of Mango Groove in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.

What’s in store for the kids?
We’ve got so much lined up:

  • Blaster Wars Arena – Ready, aim, and battle it out in a safe and exciting space.
  • Jumping Castles – Let them bounce the day away.
  • Lego Area – Creativity unleashed with endless building fun.
  • Target Shooting – Perfect for little sharpshooters.
  • Treasure Hunts & Fun Games – Adventure awaits.
  • Dedicated Toddler Zone – Safe and fun play for the tiniest festival-goers.

Tickets to this unmissable family event are a steal, priced between R100 and R250. With convenient, fully stocked bars for the adults and a delicious array of food stalls offering something for everyone, your taste buds will be as happy as your ears!

Date: Friday 2 May
Time: 4-10pm
Venue: Chris Saunders Park

Book your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable day of music and fun!
Tickets are available for purchase online at WebTickets.

Follow In The Park here for more upcoming music events. You do not want to miss out on the rest of the events they have planned for you!

Shelley
Author: Shelley

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Art

The East Coast Radio House & Garden Show 2025

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It’s fresh, bright and chockfull of surprises! It’s the 2025 East Coast Radio House & Garden Show, and we’re talking fresh spaces. bright living! A giant breath of fresh air will sweep through the Durban Exhibition Centre when the Show rolls out from Friday 28 June to Sunday 6 July.

fresh spaces. bright living is all about how to tweak or transform your home into one which brings you joy, and allows you to be you! Whether it’s little touches of stylish decor or large sweeps of bold colour and pattern, you’ll leave the Show bursting with new skills from the experts, bright ideas from different brands
 and loads of goodies and parcels. Jump on board, the 2025 East Coast Radio House + Garden Show promises to fill your head with creativity to create your own fresh spaces. bright living.

Calling all cooks and homemakers!

This year’s Test Kitchen is the kitchen of the future! Hirsch is at the helm and The Kitchen Studio is creating a space that’ll knock your socks off. Top celebrity chefs (surprises up our sleeve), fabulous personalities (guess who?), crazy cooks (laughter is the best medicine)
 the line-up is as long as it is sensational! If cooking’s your happy place, the Hirsch kitchen is the only place to be.

The 2025 East Coast Radio House + Garden Show is going to be child’s play!

This is Durban’s true family show, and we’ve got you well covered for the first week of the school holidays! From littlelies to larger, this year’s kids zone has mushroomed into its own dedicated hall, and has way, way more of what they love! And parents, this one’s for you. Drop and shop – there’s now a super-safe, well supervised drop-off zone, so you can do your thing, while they do theirs. A dedicated Kids Zone in the Coast of Dreams, with a whacky wonderland of activities. Packed with fun, yet competitive, activities and challenges, teens can put their skills to the test! From the incredible Monster Manor to fairytale characters to face-painting, wrestling and bowling, the kids just won’t want to go home.

The East Coast Radio House + Garden Show is always full of winners


And why shouldn’t it be you? With competitions big and small, you could carry home anything from the coolest kitchen appliance to the hottest sound system, a tantalising voucher to something or somewhere sensational or bags full of your favourite products.

This season, the Show is shining a full spotlight on fresh spaces, bright living, both outdoors and in! Plants, landscaping and new tricks and tools for garden lovers; boys’ toys and bits and bobs for outdoor lovers; and goodies and gadgets for those who live to braai! Renovating, restoring or dreaming of adventure, the Show will take you where you want to go.

We can’t wait to see you there!
www.housegardenshow.co.za

Shelley
Author: Shelley

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