Kimberley, the Diamond City, is preparing to welcome an increased number of visitors eager to explore its history and landscapes. However, local residents are ensuring their voices are heard before the tourism sector expands further. The community seeks to ensure this tourism growth genuinely benefits everyone, not just a select few. On 27 July 2026, community leaders emphasised the need for local job creation, support for small businesses, and strategic plans to protect the environment and unique culture. The objective is to foster city growth that improves life for all residents, including addressing infrastructure needs like roads and water systems.
Putting People First: Jobs and Businesses for Kimberley Tourism
Community leaders from areas such as Galeshewe are advocating for widespread benefits from increased tourism. They demand that Kimberley residents receive priority for new job opportunities. Imagine the aroma of fresh boerewors rolls from a local vendor near the Big Hole, or the vibrant colours of crafts made by talented artisans in Galeshewe. Ms. Sarah Mokoena, a community leader from Galeshewe, stated, "It is crucial that this tourism boom benefits everyone, not just a select few." She specifically highlighted the importance of employment for young people and opportunities for local artists and entrepreneurs to showcase their work. The Department of Tourism (NDT) supports this vision, aiming for all communities to fully benefit from tourism. They are focusing on skills development and business growth, particularly in townships and villages. The Northern Cape Tourism Authority is also committed to ensuring tourism supports local people and economic development, working collaboratively and transparently.
More Than Just Money: Growing Local Businesses
The focus extends beyond visitor spending to building local capacity and businesses. Consider the bustling stalls at the Kimberley Market Day, offering local goods and fostering community interaction. When tourists purchase from these local enterprises, the revenue remains within Kimberley, supporting families and creating further opportunities. This includes training programmes designed to equip young people with skills for hospitality, tour guiding, or managing guesthouses. This approach transforms local pride into a source of income for residents. The principle of "local is lekker" (local is good) is central to empowering local talent.
Protecting Kimberley's Past and Environment
Increased visitor numbers necessitate careful management of sensitive sites. Concerns have been raised regarding the protection of heritage sites, such as the Big Hole and the Kimberley Mine Museum, and ensuring that increased tourism does not harm the environment. Residents seek assurances that these important locations will be preserved and natural spaces safeguarded. The Sol Plaatje Municipality has acknowledged these concerns, pledging ongoing community engagement and environmental impact assessments for all new projects. They also plan to develop strategies to protect the city’s unique culture. The Northern Cape Tourism Authority intends to educate visitors on responsible tourism, promoting respect for local customs and natural attractions, including the plains leading to the Kalahari. This ensures future generations can enjoy Kimberley's rich history and expansive landscapes. The dry winter months in the Kalahari, typically from May to September, are often considered optimal for game viewing, although the region can experience high temperatures and dust in other seasons.
Improving City Services for All Residents
Beyond tourism, Kimberley residents are urging the Sol Plaatje Municipality for greater transparency and tangible progress on critical projects. This includes repairing roads, ensuring functional water infrastructure, and improving housing. There is a significant demand for the municipality to share information openly and engage regularly with the community. Residents seek updates on project timelines, costs, and benefits. The Kimberley municipality affirms its commitment to listening and promises enhanced transparency and more frequent updates on all projects. Increased tourist spending generates additional tax revenue for the municipality, which can be reinvested into public services and infrastructure, such as roads around Carrington Road. Positive developments in water management include a significant increase in the Northern Cape's dam levels earlier this year. However, some western regions of the Northern Cape have experienced recurring droughts.
A Bright Future for Kimberley: Collaborative Efforts
The Northern Cape Tourism Authority and the Sol Plaatje Municipality are collaborating to position Kimberley as a premier tourist destination. Their strategy involves highlighting the city's diamond history, rich culture, and natural beauty. Plans include upgrades for the Big Hole and the Kimberley Mine Museum to enhance visitor experiences and educational opportunities. This initiative is expected to stimulate new businesses, improve urban infrastructure, and create more opportunities for residents. A recent study by the Sol Plaatje Municipality estimates the creation of approximately 750 direct and indirect jobs in sectors like hospitality, transport (taxis/minibuses), retail (e.g., Diamond Pavilion Mall), and cultural services. This offers significant prospects for young people and families to gain skills and employment within Kimberley. Concurrently, new solar farms near Upington are contributing to job creation and more affordable electricity in the Northern Cape. Projects such as the 114-MW solar project and the 75 MW Graspan Solar PV plant have recently become operational. Additionally, Envusa Energy has secured funding for a 63-MW solar project at Kumba Iron Ore's Sishen Mine, with green electricity expected by late 2027. This comprehensive effort aims to further enhance Kimberley's prominence as a unique location in South Africa's Northern Cape province. Despite recent challenges in diamond mining, such as the Ekapa Mine facing liquidation, the city continues to seek new avenues for growth and prosperity.
The sentiment of "Local is lekker" remains strong. Residents seek preferential employment and contracts for local individuals and businesses, alongside clear communication from the Sol Plaatje Municipality and the Northern Cape Tourism Authority regarding tourism plans and their community impact. This collaborative approach ensures that as Kimberley’s tourism sector grows, all community members share in the benefits, fostering a strong and equitable city for everyone.
-- "Originally published on PR Daddy (https://prdaddy.com)."
