Warrenton, located in the north-eastern part of the Northern Cape, is a small town surrounded by the mighty Vaal River. It lies downstream from the Vaalharts Dam, the centerpiece of the Vaalharts Irrigation Scheme, which is crucial for the region’s agriculture.
Often overlooked by travellers on their way to Kimberley; Warrenton is a hidden gem rich in rural tourism opportunities.
Just 70 kilometers from Kimberley, a town famous for its diamond rush history, Warrenton offers its own unique attractions. One of these is the Vaalharts Storage Weir, established in 1936.
This vital structure supplies water to several small towns, including Vryburg, Hartswater, Jan Kempdorp, Barkly West, and Delportshoop. The weir diverts water from the Vaal River to the Bloemhof Dam and supports local water schemes.A significant cultural asset in Warrenton is the Ditshoswane Community Art Centre, located in the Ikhutseng informal settlement.
Established in 2018 by Vuyo Mayesa, the centre promotes township tourism and serves as a crucial social network for the vulnerable. It plays a major role in job creation and community development. Currently, the centre is working with 10 volunteers on a textile repurposing project called Marang A Di Phetogo Denim & Jean Repurposing. This initiative supports the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production).According to Mayesa, the centre offers numerous benefits, including incubator residency, access to markets, co-working spaces, a restaurant, and a recording studio.
It is also a hub for community outreach, academic and artistic support, and artist management. The lively centre is the heart of the informal settlement, offering unique experiences like raw honey tasting. Since its establishment, it has attracted over 2,000 visitors, including international tourists.
Mayesa dreams of growing the centre into a well-known tourism hub for the youth of Warrenton. He urges local and provincial governments to provide support, noting that local businesses such as Barlow World, Barlow World Mbewu, BASA, and the DAC Debut Programme have already contributed to building the centre.
Visitors to Warrenton can enjoy homemade food, take a Kasi-tour of the area known for its arts and crafts, and experience an authentic South African braai at the Vaalharts Storage Weir dam, making Warrenton a truly hidden gem in the Northern Cape.
