about umlazi
About umlazi
It is divided into 26 sections, A through to Z, except for I, O, X, but an addition of AA, BB, CC. It also has a rural area called eNgonyameni, which stretches inland along eZimbokodweni River.
According to the legends, the word ‘Umlazi’ is derived from ‘Umlaza’ which is the sour acid produced from a fermented or sour milk. It is believed that when King Shaka was passing through the area, he refused to drink from a local river claiming it had a taste of umlaza.
The place was then called Umlazi after that incident. This thriving township lifestyle destination offers almost everything for a discerning traveller. It’s famous for its unique township experience, all year round pleasant weather, rich heritage route, safe and buzzing pub and grills and last but not least its stylish and friendly people.
As South Africa’s biggest township, Umlazi boasts an epic nightlife with its unique and state of the art outlets to satisfy any kind of entertainment enthusiast. So, visitors to this township should be prepared for some party hopping to get the thrill.
vision
To position Umlazi as South Africa’s premier township tourism destination—celebrated nationally and internationally for its vibrant cultural identity, profound historical significance, and authentic, community-led experiences. We envision a thriving, inclusive tourism economy that empowers local entrepreneurs, preserves heritage, and welcomes visitors into the heart of township life with warmth, pride, and unforgettable stories.
- Leadership and recognition (“premier” and “celebrated nationally and internationally”)
- Cultural pride and heritage preservation
- Community empowerment and inclusivity,
- Authentic tourism experiences rather than commercialized ones
- The emotional connection visitors will feel (“warmth, pride, and unforgettable stories”).
mission
- To develop and promote authentic tourism products in Umlazi
- To create sustainable job opportunities for local residents
- To preserve and showcase Umlazi’s heritage and culture
- To support SMMEs in tourism-related services
- To engage youth and women in tourism education and training
- Guided Township Tours (culture, history, food, music)
- Tourism Product Development (heritage sites, homestays,attractions)
- Events & Festivals (Umlazi Cultural Festival, Township HeritageWalk)
- Capacity Building (training for tour guides, hospitality,entrepreneurs)
- Marketing & Promotion (digital campaigns, brochures, tourismexpos)
- Collaborations (government, private sector, schools, artists)
Population
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Year Founded
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History of Umlazi
The history of Umlazi (or Mlazi) dates back to 1845 when British settlers forcibly occupied what was then Natal (now KwaZulu Natal ) and created a number of ‘Native locations’ for the Zulus in the Natal region. A year later, Sir Theophilus Shepstone, a settler in his capacity as a diplomatic agent to the Native tribes of Natal, appointed by the British colonial authorities, orchestrated a system in his administration and, in implementation, allocated all the African tribes of Natal to six locations.
Physical Address
2 KwaMnyandu Light, Industrial Hub,Umlazi Township
OFFICE HOURS
8am – 5pm daily