The eThekwini Municipality has approved a R14 million financial injection for uShaka Marine World, in a bid to keep the iconic Durban theme park operational amid ongoing financial distress.
The majority of councillors voted in favour of the funding, which will go to Durban Marine Theme Park (DMTP), the municipal entity that manages uShaka’s operations.
The park, once a crown jewel of Durban tourism, has been plagued by cash flow constraints linked to its current business model and institutional structure.
Officials say that during low trading periods, the park fails to generate enough income to cover mandatory expenses – causing it to rely heavily on peak-season surpluses.
Historical debt has further weakened the park’s ability to remain solvent throughout the year.
Strategic support, not a bailout
Thembo Ntuli, ANC councillor and Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, defended the move, calling it a “strategic investment” rather than a bailout.
“Without this funding, the park may be forced to scale down or suspend operations, putting jobs, tourism revenue, and the city’s reputation at risk,” Ntuli said.
The funding aims to stabilise uShaka Marine World as a “going concern”, warding off the risk of job losses and a potential decline in domestic and international tourism revenue for the city and province.
Turnaround strategy in progress
The DMTP has committed to finalising a turnaround strategy by July 2025, which will outline measures to resolve the theme park’s operational inefficiencies and improve long-term sustainability.
A new credit agreement is also being explored to help restructure and settle the park’s existing debt burden, with a view to enhancing liquidity and operational capacity.
Economic and tourism significance
uShaka Marine World remains a key tourism anchor for both Durban and KwaZulu-Natal.
The facility, which includes a water park, aquarium, and entertainment complex, draws thousands of visitors annually and contributes significantly to local economic activity.
Operations at the park are overseen by the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), a non-profit organisation focused on marine education and conservation, while the municipality continues to fund the park’s broader operations.
With the approved funding, the city hopes to preserve one of its most recognisable attractions and secure its role as a driver of economic growth, employment, and tourism in the region.
Have you ever visited uShaka Marine World?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
