Tourist Safety Awareness Campaign a Success in Clarens

The Free State Gambling, Liquor and Tourism Authority (FSGLTA) partnered with the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Conservation Area (MDTFCA) Tourism Working Group (TWG) to host a tourist safety awareness campaign in Clarens on Friday, 17 October 2025. The campaign was the first of its kind in the area and marked a new step toward improving tourism safety in the Free State. The event drew strong participation from local tourism stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, and small business owners operating in the hospitality sector.

The initiative focused on creating awareness about safety practices for tourists and tourism operators. Clarens, known for its scenic landscapes and growing tourism economy, was chosen for its position as one of the province’s most visited towns. FSGLTA Chief Executive Officer, together with MDTFCA representatives, emphasized the importance of collaboration in ensuring that visitors enjoy a secure experience while exploring the region. They noted that safety and responsible conduct are key to sustaining tourism growth and maintaining the area’s reputation as a leading travel destination.

Speakers highlighted the role of tourism operators in implementing safety protocols, maintaining ethical business standards, and working closely with authorities to prevent criminal activity. Local law enforcement provided demonstrations and safety tips for both tourists and service providers. The campaign also aimed to strengthen partnerships between public and private stakeholders. Local guesthouse owners, tour operators, and small business entrepreneurs took part in workshops on visitor safety, emergency response, and communication strategies.

FSGLTA officials said the goal was not only to educate but also to empower local businesses to act as ambassadors for safe tourism. The MDTFCA Tourism Working Group added that the campaign aligned with regional efforts to promote cross-border tourism within the Maloti-Drakensberg area, which spans South Africa and Lesotho.

Participants described the campaign as a success. Many welcomed the initiative as timely, especially as tourism in the Free State continues to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers confirmed that the awareness drive will be expanded to other tourism hubs in the province. Plans include more training sessions, community safety audits, and joint campaigns with municipalities and law enforcement.

The FSGLTA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that tourism remains a safe and rewarding experience for all visitors to the Free State. The Authority said that collaboration with partners like the MDTFCA and TWG will remain central to its mission of promoting a secure, responsible, and sustainable tourism environment.