EDITOR’S COMMENT

Together we are stronger

Our world is in turmoil. As I write this, it feels like South Africa has been attacked by an alien invasion from outer space. However, the reality is that South Africa, mainly KwaZulu-Natal, has been unceremoniously ripped apart from within by unscrupulous sectors of the community.

As a result, South Africa is hurting. For the first time in a long time, I am numb.

I am numb with sadness, I am numb in anger, I am numb in what I am seeing happening in our beautiful country. The unnecessary destruction, disruption and disarray.

As I sit here, the only solace I have is watching how communities have come together – firstly to protect their own communities, and secondly, how they have come together to clean up and rebuild. It is going to be a long road to recovery, but we are not done. We shall once again rise above all this tragedy.

The resilience and the spirit of our South African people is what motivates me each day.

It amazes me that – in a time of need – we remain united and are committed to peace. Always!

We have come such a long way, and South Africa, in all its challenges, remains our home.

Covid-19 has hit our country hard; unemployment is at an all time high and our sector – the business events sector – has once again come to a complete halt due to the third wave and the imposed restrictions.

Still, we persevere and remain law abiding citizens. There is no justification for what has happened over the last few days. None!

All I may, and all we may do, is look to the future. This too will pass! We have done this before.

This month Business Events Africa looks at KwaZulu-Natal as a destination, and yes, it is a wondrous destination for tourists and delegates alike. KwaZuluNatal is the heartbeat of South Africa. KZN hasn’t missed a beat. Even in the most trying times, the province was able to remain united. Through all the disarray, the KZN people have been able to stand tall and after much devastation, come through it stronger with an even stronger community spirit.

KwaZulu-Natal remains the most diverse province we have in South Africa. It is a multi-cultural showpiece global destination, with a resounding track record when it comes to hosting top local and international events.

KZN remains a firm leader in the South African business events space. Nowhere else in the world will you find such a unique fusion of raw natural beauty, modern sophistication, cultural diversity and pulsating energy – all in the most breath-taking natural setting.

Together we are stronger! Let’s continue to support each other!

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com