Contradictions and Contestations within Lephalale's Tourism Development Vision
Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
Time: 1:00-2:30 PM
Location: Mackintosh-Corry Hall, Room D214
Abstract: Lephalale municipality markets itself both as “South Africa’s energy hub” and “the heartbeat of the bushveldt.” The first refers to its two gigantic coal-burning power stations and the world’s largest open-cast coal mine. The second is a nod to the region’s most outstanding natural feature, the Waterberg UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In this paper we critically assess the potential of mooted “ecotourism” to mitigate the harms of industrial developments and the enduring legacies of apartheid.
Marc Epprecht is a professor based in the Department of Global Development Studies at Queen's University. A historian by training, but interdisciplinary by inclination, he has published extensively on the history of development in Africa, with particular attention to the roles of gender and sexuality.
Oarisa Riddoch is an MA candidate in Global Development Studies at Queen’s University. Her research explores just transitions in South Africa, specifically examining how tourism can drive economic growth in Lephalale during the country’s shift from coal extraction and energy production.