By: Nhlanhla Mthembu

The eThekwini Municipality has signed a three-year partnership deal with KwaZulu-Natal’s rugby team, the Cell C Sharks, to promote Durban as an international tourist destination.

The Durban Tourism logo will be used on the Sharks jersey and shorts, sharing the Sharks symbol, Sharkie, stadium labelling and exclusive media rights across

platforms.

A report, which was tabled last year and signed two months ago, states that the partnership would provide a platform for Durban Tourism to promote the “Durban experience” to potential international visitors.

During a recent media briefing held at Kings Park Growthpoint Stadium, eThekwini Municipality’s Deputy Mayor Nomvuzo Shabalala said that the partnership was

important for Durban.

“This partnership between the City of Durban and the Sharks is hugely significant in marketing our city on both (the) national and international platform,” said Shabalala.

Durban Tourism head, Phillip Sithole said that he is looking forward to the Sharks parading a trophy through the townships.

“We would also urge the Sharks to visit townships as part of not only promoting Durban but rugby,” said Sithole.