R2.3 billion investment project creates 1400 construction jobs

It is the final countdown to the opening of the highly anticipated Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari Resort on KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast. Reservations opened in September last year, 10 months ahead of the July 2026 opening.

Developed in partnership with Collins Residential Consortium and managed by the French travel and tourism operator Club Med, the resort nestled along a pristine coastline in Tinley Manor in the Ilembe District, is the first of its kind in the country. Henri Giscard d’Estaing, President of Club Med said since its establishment in 1950, Club Med has always been a pioneer in exploring and establishing resorts in extraordinary places. “Our new project seeks to create value for the local communities and enhance the international appeal of the magnificent province of KwaZulu-Natal,” he said.

Collins committed the R2.3 billion Club Med investment at the 2024 KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference, returning last year to pledge the R500 million Impilo Game Reserve in Mkhuze. Together, these tourism projects will offer a unique dual oceanfront luxury experience combined with an unforgettable safari adventure. Sihle Ngcamu, CEO of Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN), which facilitates the Conference on behalf of the provincial government, highlighted its multiple benefits for the province.

“This is a major investment in KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism sector, stimulating economic growth by attracting both international and local tourists and creating jobs. We’re excited to see the project’s progress and look forward to its completion,” said Ngcamu.

Progress in the construction of the project was sped up it being broken down the project into multiple packages, which, by according to Chris du Toit, Project Lead of Tinley Leisure, allowed for greater control, adaptability, and focus on specific skills. “Instead of going the traditional route and appointing the whole development to one or two contractors, we’ve divided the project into multiple packages, allowing us to maintain control, adapt to conditions on the ground, and focus on the skills that each contractor excels at, thus build stronger relationships with teams on site. Each package is assigned to a specific contractor team through a rigorous selection process, based on credentials and expertise, but also largely based on who would actually be present on-site day to day,” explains du Toit. Thisapproach has enabled the team to adapt, pivot, and hold each contractor accountable while prioritising inclusivity, innovation and quality.

Investing in the local economy and people

The construction strategy of the resort focuses on local labour integration, with a formal Community Forum overseeing recruitment across the three surrounding wards. Collins emphasised the importance of investing in the local economy and people. “We’re investing in the local economy and people. Our contractor teams are supported by strong local labour with many of the labourers sourced from within 10km from site, and every package has clear targets for community involvement,” added Collins.

Apart from the construction jobs, the resort is expected to create 800 direct jobs and 1500 indirect opportunities as part of their grounding in a sustainable and socially inclusive development model. IN addition, 110 young people have enrolled in a dedicated training programme via the NukaKamma Hospitality School and are currently preparing for winter traineeships at Club Med resorts abroad, after which they will gradually integrate into the new resort’s staff the majority of which will be drawn from surrounding communities, in line with Club Med’s Happy to Care initiatives. Sustainability at its core Club Med South Africa is driven by sustainability, aiming for Green Globe certification and a 4-Star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of South Africa. Key initiatives include eco-conscious design, solar energy, water conservation, zero single-use plastics, and food waste reduction targets. Club Med is also embedding local farmers and producers into its supply chain to promote inclusive growth, through its partnership with the French NGO Agrisud. “Our vision is to celebrate South Africa’s rich natural heritage in every experience and every trip here. Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari will be a shining example of this desire to combine authenticity, hospitality and regional development,” added Collins.

Legacy and innovation

The resort is expected to redefine all-inclusive luxury, with a range of amenities, including a Convention Centre, Kids Club, family pool, and sports facilities. The Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari resort is set to become a destination that not only offers luxury and relaxation but also showcases innovative construction practices and community involvement. “Every decision we’ve made has been about intent. This isn’t just about construction, it’s about legacy, innovation, and doing things the right way,” added Collins.