By Nosihle Zulu
As KwaZulu-Natal economic development, tourism and environmental affairs MEC Musa Zondi calls for greater support for small businesses in the tourism sector, Amanda Dube is already leading the way.
The 22-year-old Durban University of Technology (DUT) graduate and nature enthusiast from Ozwathini, has transformed her passion into a thriving tourism business, proving that young entrepreneurs can drive economic growth and create opportunities in rural communities.
In June 2024, she started her business which focused on the art of cooking local cuisine by the river, which saw her leveraging natural resources to create a unique kitchen cooking set.
With just 171,400 followers on TikTok, Dube’s popularity resulted in adventure tourists from KZN and Gauteng wanting to experience wilderness cooking with her.
So, she introduced the Wilderness Cooking Experience with Amanda, where tourists pay a booking fee of R1000 per day to witness her creativity and unique art. The fee includes a camping tent, food and hiking trails.
“By showing off the beauty of nature and unique cooking style, I attract tourists,” she told Vutivi News.
Dube’s wilderness cooking was ignited by her passion for nature.
“I love the outdoors, the act of preparing food over an open flame [and] using locally sourced ingredients… It creates a sense of community and shared experience that is often missing in modern society,” she said.
“Wilderness cooking represents a return to our roots, tapping into the ancient tradition of preparing and enjoying food in a natural setting.
“Beyond the practicality of preparing sustenance outdoors, wilderness cooking offers a unique and visceral connection with the land and its ingredients. It’s a reminder that food is more than just fuel, but is a means to connect with the environment and the people around us,” she explained.
Due to the great momentum that Dube’s attractive initiative has achieved, she said she was recognised on uKhozi FM by Khathide Ngobe in December 2024.
She has also received support and words of encouragement from famous entrepreneurs such as DJ Zinhle and Lerato Kganyago.
Next month, Dube will be hosting the Wilderness Cooking Experience in Ozwathini. She is expecting the arrival of more than 40 tourists.
The booking fee is R2750 and that there will be added tourism activities such as games and wine tasting.
“My guests will get to experience the sights and sounds of the wilderness first-hand, from the stunning landscapes to the diverse wildlife and plant life,” Dube said.
Attendees will also be introduced to traditional cooking techniques.
“They’ll get to witness the art of cooking over an open fire, using local ingredients and traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.”
Dube also promotes local tourism businesses.
“I work with Tamane Bush Camp which is a small thriving local tourism business that offers visitors with immersive and authentic wilderness experience.”
Her major goal is to promote sustainable tourism.
“As a content creator I can advocate for eco-friendly and responsible tourism practices, such as using local products, supporting small businesses and educating tourists about the importance of preserving the environment,” she concluded.
