Durban will host the South African Music Awards (SAMA) again after eight years. This announcement comes hot on the heels of the city successfully hosting the MTN8 final between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns this past weekend.
The 29th SAMA will be held on Friday and Saturday November 17 and 18 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. The SAMAs were last held in Durban in 2015.
Through a partnership between the event organisers and the province’s Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the awards will be held in KZN for the next three years.
eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said he looked forward to the thousands of visitors expected to come to the city for the awards. He added that hosting the event would further instil confidence in the city’s readiness to host visitors over the summer season.
“It is a great platform to market Destination Durban to the millions of viewers and music lovers who will be attending the SAMAs ahead of the festive season,” he said.
“eThekwini is known for its capability of hosting major events, which brings a huge boost for the local tourism sector and related value chains. Such events are an opportunity for us to showcase the beauty and adventure that Durban has to offer.
“It is also an opportunity to grow the local economy. We expect 123 job opportunities to be created from hosting the SAMAs which is also an opportunity for local small businesses to thrive.”
He added that the city anticipated a direct spending of more than R25.8 million, with the injection to the city’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimated to be R63 million.
“Durban offers excellent accommodation as well as an array of experiences that visitors can enjoy including adventure, culture, heritage, culinary cuisine, the beach and shopping. The list is endless of activities to enjoy in Durban, the city has so much to offer,” said Mr Kaunda.
