The Mtwalumi holiday resort located on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast caused controversy on social media when it was revealed that their rental committee required approval for “same-sex” groups to stay at the resort.
The resort was accused of being homophobic by some social media users who demanded its closure.
However, Craig Anderson, a trustee at the resort, clarified the situation.
Anderson explained that the resort’s rules were not directed at the LGBTQIA+ community, who were welcome to stay at the resort subject to the same rules as all guests.
Anderson revealed that the rental committee was instituted to mitigate unacceptable incidents caused by large same-sex groups of men and women visiting the resort.
Rule 5, together with rule 4, stipulated that no “Bulls and Hens” parties were allowed, and no same-sex groups were allowed until approved by the rental committee.
Anderson emphasized that the rental committee was established to deal with each application on its individual merits and avoid a “one size fits all” approach.
Furthermore, the definition applied to “groups” included more than four individuals. There was no screening of “same-sex” groups of guests numbering four or fewer.
Anderson explained that the Mtwalumi Holiday Resort aimed to provide a family-friendly environment, free from unsavoury incidents historically perpetuated by large same-sex groups of guests.
Anderson apologized for any misconception created by the “same-sex” connotation.