Tourism Economic Diversification Scoping Study Coalfields region

Overview

The Tourism Economic Diversification Scoping Study for the Mpumalanga Coalfields examines whether tourism could support economic diversification in a region heavily dependent on coal mining and power generation. The study was conducted as part of South Africa’s Just Transition work and draws on secondary data, stakeholder interviews, surveys of tourism firms, and international case studies on post-mining tourism. It finds that tourism activity in the coalfields is currently limited and largely linked to business travel associated with the coal industry. However, the region’s proximity to Gauteng, existing infrastructure, and opportunities in agritourism, heritage tourism, and post-mining site redevelopment provide potential for future tourism development.

Recommendations

The research finds that tourism in the region is currently limited and largely tied to business travel related to the coal industry, but there are opportunities to expand nature-based tourism, agritourism, and heritage tourism. The study emphasises that tourism should complement broader diversification strategies, supported by targeted infrastructure investment, anchor tourism projects, and stronger institutional support for small tourism enterprises to stimulate inclusive regional development.

• Develop tourism clusters around existing towns (e.g., eMalahleni–Middelburg and Ermelo–Chrissiesmeer) by upgrading SME tourism businesses and creating a critical mass of visitor experiences.
• Pursue anchor tourism investments, such as repurposing former mining infrastructure into large destination sites offering heritage, adventure, conferencing, and recreation activities.
• Expand nature-based and agritourism offerings, especially in rural areas and around lakes, farms, and small towns.
• Improve enabling conditions for tourism through better road infrastructure, safety and security, and reduced regulatory barriers.
• Strengthen collaboration and support for tourism SMEs, including access to finance, industry associations, and coordinated marketing between government, communities, and businesses.

Source: Download the Scoping Study

Additional relevant sources:

• Download the Policy Brief
• To access the Development Dialogue held on 5 March 2026, click here. View the video recording here.  Click here to download the presentation. Media: Click here to read the article by Sabrina Jardin, Mining Weekly. 6 March 2026.