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government services were concentrated in Ulundi and Vryheid. A significant weakness was,
and remains, the reliance on the primary sector (44.4% of GGP), and the underdeveloped
secondary sector, which contributed only 6.4% of GGP. The informal sector (mainly petty
commodity trading) has grown considerably over the last decade, but is constrained by the
slump in primary and secondary sectors ofthe formal economy. Although soils are generally
infertile in Zululand (Figure 5.3), the potential for economic growth in Zululand lies in
tourism and agriculture (IDP-Zululand District Municipality, 2006). This study seeks to
demonstrate the untapped synergy and relationships that exist between tourism and
agriculture in the study area
This research therefore, examines the local economic development strategies implemented in
Ulundi to diversify the economy, so as to reduce the over reliance on the government sector
by its residents. The study further explores the socio-economic effects of relocation of the
legislative capital from Ulundi to Pietermaritzburg and proposes strategic alternatives for the
vacuum created.
5.3.1 Tourism Development
The tourism industry is one of the fast growing sectors in the world today. As a service
sector. it contributes significantly towards the gross domestic product of countries. South
Africa is known to have a tourism industry that is no exception to the aforementioned global
growth trend. The Zululand Region of KZN province in South Africa features prominently in
tourism since it boasts of physical landscape and cultural attributes that attract tourists. both
far and near. Quite a number of the main focal areas for development are identified in the
Zululand District Municipality.
5.3.1.1 Emakbosini Ophathe Heritage Park
The development of the Emakhosini Opathe Heritage Park is a joint venture between Amafa
aKwaZulu and KZN Conservation Services (Figure 5.1). It occupies an area of 34000 ha
The project is situated in the Emakhosini valley, the birthplace ofthe Zulu Kings. The project
comprises the introduction of game to the area, the development of rest camps and Nguni
cattle-farming project that involves the local community. This project may unlock the tourism
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