Club Med’s R2bn KwaZulu-Natal resort creates 2,100 jobs

Club Med’s R2bn KwaZulu-Natal resort creates 2,100 jobs. Club Med’s more than R2 billion Beach & Safari Resort investment in KwaZulu-Natal has created 600 permanent direct jobs and supports a further 1,500 indirect jobs through suppliers and related industries.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille highlighted the employment and business opportunities created by the development during the resort’s official opening, where she delivered an address on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

De Lille said the investment is South African-funded, with the consortium behind the project committed to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE).

The resort’s construction phase created more than 2,300 direct and indirect jobs, while the completed development has created 600 permanent direct positions.

De Lille said 84% of employees at the Beach Resort are South African, while all employees at Vikela Safari Lodge are from surrounding communities.

The development combines the Beach Resort with Vikela Safari Lodge, linking KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline with wildlife experiences in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

De Lille said the resort could give travellers another reason to visit South Africa, stay longer and explore more of the country.

She also highlighted the potential opportunities for local suppliers, noting that the resort would require fresh produce, maintenance, transport and other services.

“These connections can create an opening for a small, micro and medium enterprise,” she said.

The minister said skills gained by construction workers, artisans and contractors during the development could be applied to future work.

De Lille also said tourism growth was continuing in 2026, with South Africa recording 6.5 million international arrivals between January and July, representing a 12.4% year-on-year increase.

She highlighted the need for cooperation between government, businesses, communities and training organisations to support tourism investment.

The minister also pointed to environmental responsibilities, including responsible water and energy use, waste reduction and care for the surrounding environment.

She encouraged international visitors staying at the resort to explore communities, places and attractions beyond the property.