In the two years since the murder of popular artist Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes and his former manager, Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane, a lot has changed on Durban's popular Florida Road.
The double murder of AKA and Tibz devastated the community and business community of Florida Road as well as millions of South Africans, but what impact has the incident had on the popular Durban hotspot since.
Vanessa Knight, Florida Road's Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) manager, said in the weeks and months of the double murder, there was a state of shock and despair, as many grappled with the unsettling realisation that such a targeted hit could happen anywhere even on their own doorstep.
However, Knight said over time Florida Road has healed and moved forward.
"While the incident prompted necessary reflection and discussions about safety, the long-term impact has underscored that this was a specific, targeted act rather than a reflection of the overall environment of our area," Knight said.
Immediate impact to business
In terms of businesses that were impacted by the incident, according to Knight, the most notable impact was the closure of Wish, which shut its doors just two months after the incident. As Wish stepped out, in came the Mason Restaurant, which offers a similar high-end experience for patrons.
IOL reached out to DJ Benny Maverick, who was the co-owner of Wish, but he declined to comment when approached for comment.
Knight said that it is crucial to acknowledge that other factors such as the challenges posed by Covid-19 which also played a huge role in affecting business activity in the area.
"The incident itself, while tragic, was one of multiple influences on the business landscape," Knight said.
The murder of AKA also resulted in a decline in business activity in the popular hub that is known for its restaurants, cafés, pubs, clubs, and shops.
"Initially, there was a temporary downturn in business activity as the community processed the event," Knight said.
"However, the reality is that Florida Road remains a safe and welcoming destination. The incident was a targeted hit and did not indicate broader security issues; it was a singular event that could have happened anywhere, rather than a symptom of systemic problems on the road."
Security measures
Knight has revealed that there have been isolated incidents such as a few cases of cellphone theft and a recent vehicle theft, but nothing that suggests a widespread security problem on the once buzzing Florida Road.
IOL also reported in September 2024, that two people were killed and two were left injured following a shooting incident on Florida Road in the early hours of that Tuesday morning.
Since the murder of AKA, Florida Road has changed their approach to security.
Öur approach to security has become more proactive. Where the immediate response was once one of freezing in shock, we now act quickly and decisively to address any issues, ensuring that the safety and well-being of visitors remain a top priority," Knight explained.
Florida Road has a robust security framework that includes a permanent Metro presence, frequent SAPS patrols, and a network of local security companies.
"These security providers are not only highly responsive but are also deeply familiar with Florida Road. For example, when a recent vehicle theft occurred, coordinated efforts among Metro, SAPS, and around ten local security firms resulted in the swift recovery of the vehicle.
"This robust setup has allowed us to host numerous events and functions without any incidents, reaffirming that Florida Road remains a safe environment for all."
A new Florida Road
Florida Road has recently undergone a huge transformation, with a shift toward a more inclusive approach has fostered vibrant community engagement and a host of new events that benefit everyone.
"The recent revamp of Florida Road emerged from a commitment to listening to our tenants a group that historically had less influence compared to property owners," Knight said.
"For instance, Tarryn from the Florida Road Hotel spearheaded a Halloween celebration that drew hundreds of families, while Olive Tree Church organized an outdoor carols night that beautifully transformed our park.
"With ongoing events such as the monthly market, Valentine’s movie night, and plans for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, Florida Road is setting a standard for community-driven urban revitalisation."
@andileclicquotkhumalo_ One of the beautiful moments I've captured on our famous Florida Road in DURBAN
♬ original sound - Its.andilejunior
IOL Business