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The Democratic Alliance in eThekwini has rejected a report by the eThekwini Municipality's Business Support, Markets and Tourism Unit to spend R8.3 million on parties, events, and R1.37 million on a 'flood benefit concert' over the next three months.

This is while the city battles to recover from the second round of catastrophic flooding that has devastated municipal infrastructure and left almost ten thousand people homeless.

The DA agreed to support only hosting the Ironman 70.3 in October 2022 and the Durban July. Both of these events have proven economic benefits for eThekwini and a tangible impact on the city.

The DA 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 Treasury to be at R3.9 billion. With no additional funding commitments from 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.

For years, the unholy alliance between the ANC, 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 ANC.

The decision to spend R8.3 million on parties while eThekwini lies in ruins shows the ANC's true colours. The DA- the only party to take a stand against this spending- was clear that these decisions should be taken reasonably and rationally; considering what eThekwini really stands to benefit on each item.

The DA remains the only party fighting for a sustainable future for eThekwini residents.

Issued by DA eThekwini Caucus Leader, Councillor Nicole Graham