Port Elizabeth: Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Benson Fihla Hoists Blue Flags For Humewood And Kings Beach

Port Elizabeth, South Africa - Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Benson Fihla could not hold back his excitement at the official hoisting of Blue Flags for Humewood and Kings Beach at the Beach Office on Thursday (07 November 2013).

"Our hard work has certainly paid off, as we again hoist the Blue Flag for both Humewood and Kings Beach,” said Executive Mayor Fihla. He said he was pleased to announce to the people of the City and the whole world that the two popular beaches have been certified to be safe healthy and adhere to strict environmental management systems.

The two beaches formed part of a number of beaches across the country that were recently given certificates of Blue Flags Status at an event in Durban. Sport and Recreation Portfolio Chairman, Councillor Magopheni attended the event on behalf of the municipality.

The Blue Flag status covers the summer season from November 2013 to April 2014. It includes adherence to four aspects of coastal management. The areas are, sound environmental management, environmental education initiatives and healthy bathing water quality. Safety and security for beach users is also one of the aspects.

The blue flag programme is currently running in a lot of countries all over the world. The two Blue Flag statuses place Nelson Mandela Bay among the best beaches in the world as the Blue Flag award is the most prestigious international award that could be bestowed on the city’s beaches for meeting the highest standards.

The Executive Mayor said hard work by officials clearly showed that the city can achieve great things. "We need to place this City among the best in the world. Our beaches have a potential of attracting tourists that will create more jobs and boost the economy of the City," said the Executive Mayor.

“Today we have a reason to be proud and to celebrate, it was not an easy road to get here but we are here and have received the blue flag status as the municipality,” EDRS standing committee chairperson Councillor Nomamerika Magopeni said.

Councillor Magopheni also said: “As we hoist the blue flag this year , let us all recommit ourselves to safeguard and enjoy the wonderful asset that is Humewood Beach and all our other beaches this coming summer season and beyond.”