The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government in South Africa has announced a partnership with NAVIGO, Italy’s leading cluster of yachting and marine companies, to strengthen the province’s maritime sector.
The announcement was made during the KZN-NAVIGO Boat Building and Yachting Industry Roundtable held on 15 July 2025 at the Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre in eThekwini.
NAVIGO, which represents around 400 member companies in the yachting industry, is expected to work alongside KwaZulu-Natal to enhance its strength in design, technology, sustainability and coastal tourism. The partnership will also focus on upskilling youth and building inclusive economic participation through marine-related sectors.
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Mr. Thamsanqa Ntuli, stated: “The agreement we sign today reflects our intent to co-brand, co-develop and co-market high-value vessels globally, while jointly investing in research, recycling and sustainable marine technology.”
He further stated that KwaZulu-Natal is aiming to position itself as a leader in the broader maritime economy: “We are repositioning KwaZulu-Natal as a hub of ocean-based industrialisation - from superyacht manufacturing and coastal tourism to aquaculture, port logistics and marine component innovation.”
Rev. Musa Zondi, Member of the Executive Council for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, said: “What we are envisioning together is not just economic growth, but growth with purpose. Growth that upskills young people. Growth that partners with local businesses. Growth that places KwaZulu-Natal on the global map as a yachting and refit destination - supported by our deep-water ports, special economic zones, air connectivity through King Shaka International Airport and our investor-ready environment.”
NAVIGO President Katia Balducci expressed confidence in the partnership, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to collaborating closely with the province of KwaZulu-Natal.
