Xhariep’s Tourism Sector Struggles to Flourish Amid Neglect and Poor Infrastructure, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 5, 2025

Xhariep District, being at the center of the Free State province in South Africa, faces challenges in tourism development. With all the rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and historical significance, the district has failed to capitalize on its potential as a key tourism destination. The Xhariep District Municipality is criticized by local leaders and tourism specialists for failing to attract and sustain meaningful tourism that would be a driver of economic growth and job creation for the region.

Unfulfilled Potential: Xhariep’s Rich Tourism Assets

Xhariep District is home to the Gariep Dam, a stunning body of water surrounded by picturesque landscapes that could easily become a major tourist attraction. The region’s historical landmarks, cultural heritage sites, and natural beauty should make it a prime destination for domestic and international visitors alike. However, due to poor planning and management, these assets have not been adequately developed or marketed.

Tourism is widely recognized as a catalyst for local development, bringing revenue, jobs, and opportunities for small businesses. In many regions of South Africa, tourism has been successfully leveraged to boost economic growth. Xhariep, however, has not capitalized on this opportunity, and the consequences are beginning to show.

The Democratic Alliance Condemns Lack of Tourism Strategy

The Democratic Alliance (DA), a political party in South Africa, has strongly condemned the ongoing failure of the Xhariep District Municipality to develop a coherent tourism strategy. According to the DA, the municipality’s lack of a credible plan to market the district’s attractions is one of the key reasons behind the stagnation of tourism in the area. “It is distressing to see how little attention has been paid to one of the most promising sectors for economic growth in Xhariep,” said the DA in a statement. “Despite the district’s vast tourism potential, the municipality has consistently failed to act.”

The DA points out several critical shortcomings in the district’s tourism strategy, including:

1. Absence of a Comprehensive Tourism Plan: The district has not developed or implemented a credible tourism development plan, leaving it directionless in a competitive industry.
2. Inadequate Infrastructure: Key infrastructure, such as roads, signage, and basic amenities, remains in disrepair, making it difficult for tourists to visit and enjoy the region’s attractions.
3. Neglected Heritage Sites: Historical landmarks and cultural assets, which could serve as major draws for visitors, are not being maintained or promoted, causing them to lose their relevance and appeal.
4. Lack of Local Engagement: There has been no meaningful involvement of local communities, entrepreneurs, or farmers in tourism development efforts, preventing the creation of sustainable, inclusive tourism initiatives that could benefit residents.

Impact on Local Economy and Job Creation

The failure to develop tourism in Xhariep has had significant economic consequences. The region is missing out on vital tourism revenue and investment opportunities that could help alleviate unemployment and stimulate local businesses. In a district where economic upliftment is crucial, tourism could provide much-needed jobs, particularly in hospitality, transportation, and small businesses.

Without the growth of the tourism sector, Xhariep remains stagnant, while other regions of the Free State have leveraged their tourism potential to attract both local and international visitors. This disparity underscores the missed opportunities in Xhariep, highlighting the need for strong leadership and strategic planning to drive economic change.

A Call to Action: What Needs to Be Done

The DA has called on the Xhariep District Municipality to take immediate action to unlock the region’s tourism potential. They are urging the municipality to:

1. Develop a Comprehensive Tourism Development Plan: This plan should include clear timelines, measurable outcomes, and a focus on long-term sustainability to guide tourism growth in Xhariep.
2. Prioritize Infrastructure Upgrades: Upgrading roads, signage, and essential amenities is essential for improving accessibility and ensuring that visitors have a positive experience.
3. Partner with Local Communities: Engaging local residents, businesses, and tourism bodies in tourism development initiatives will ensure that the benefits of tourism are widely distributed and contribute to the overall development of the district.
4. Market Xhariep’s Unique Attractions: The district’s rich cultural and natural heritage must be effectively marketed to attract both domestic and international tourists.

Tourism as an Essential Economic Lifeline

The DA emphasizes that tourism is not just a luxury but an essential economic lifeline for regions like Xhariep. The continued neglect of this sector represents a betrayal of the district’s potential and its people. By failing to develop tourism, the municipality is missing out on an opportunity to bring jobs, revenue, and long-term prosperity to the region.“It is time for the municipality to recognize the importance of tourism and the role it can play in transforming Xhariep,” the DA stated. “We will continue to hold the municipality accountable until meaningful action is taken.”

The Road Ahead: A Vision for Xhariep’s Future

For Xhariep District to fully realize its tourism potential, there needs to be a shift in how the region approaches the sector. The development of a clear and strategic tourism plan, improved infrastructure, and better engagement with local communities are all essential steps towards building a sustainable tourism industry.

The DA’s call for action is a wake-up call for the Xhariep District Municipality. By focusing on the region’s tourism assets and working collaboratively with stakeholders, the municipality has the opportunity to create a thriving tourism sector that can drive economic growth, provide jobs, and improve the quality of life for local residents.

A Missed Opportunity That Can Still Be Addressed

The Xhariep District is underdeveloped in terms of tourism development, despite its rich potential. It could develop into one of the best tourist areas in South Africa, provided tourism development is proactive, infrastructure is improved, and there is more local involvement. The underperformance of the tourism sector in Xhariep is indeed a missed opportunity; however, it is not too late for the district to change this and unlock its full potential for growth and prosperity in a sustainable manner.