A Historical Analysis of Tourism Development Under Apartheid: The Case of Ciskei

Sixaba, Zinzi and Sixaba, Buntu (2026) A Historical Analysis of Tourism Development Under Apartheid: The Case of Ciskei. MODERN GEOGRÁFIA, 21 (2). pp. 31-47. ISSN 2062-1655

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Abstract

In recent years, a new focus in South African tourism studies has emerged, emphasizing historical research to better understand past tourism geographies. This paper contributes to this field by examining a neglected aspect of tourism during the apartheid era, specifically the development of casinos in rural Ciskei. The study employs a historical approach, drawing on archival materials and existing literature to analyse the evolution of tourism in the region. Prior to its independence, little was known about Ciskei as a tourism destination in Southern Africa. Economic development policies during apartheid prioritized industrialization as the primary engine of growth, while tourism received limited attention. Nevertheless, Ciskei experienced a notable shift toward tourism development, with policy focus gradually increasing in the early 1980s as the casino and hotel sectors expanded. However, allegations of corruption among regional leaders cast a shadow over this growth.

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