South Africa has inaugurated the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre in the Golden Gate Highlands Park, located in the Free State Province. This facility aims to become a significant cultural and scientific attraction with potential for tourism growth. It offers visitors an interactive experience that combines paleontological, archaeological, and geological knowledge with cultural heritage through various exhibitions.
Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille expressed her excitement about this new development: “It is a joyous occasion for our county as we unveil this new exciting cultural and scientific tourism product.” She further stated that “this facility is a wonderful addition to our diverse tourism offerings and it will ensure repeat visits, keep visitors longer, and more importantly help visitors spend more money in our captivating destinations.”
The centre was developed through collaboration between the Department of Tourism (DT) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). Funding amounting to R120 million was secured from the European Union via the National Treasury to construct this centre aimed at preserving regional fossil heritage while celebrating indigenous BaSotho cultures.
Themed “A Nation That Works for All – Unearthing Our Past, Building Our Future,” the centre promises an immersive experience designed to engage both young and old visitors. Minister De Lille highlighted South Africa’s rich natural resources by noting that “the rocks of Golden Gate Highlands are 200 million years old, and their fossils tell a unique story about earth’s history.”
Developed under the Working for Tourism programme alongside South African National Parks Agency (SANParks), this initiative seeks to enhance destination competitiveness and foster economic growth within Free State’s rural economy. Minister De Lille commented on its strategic importance: “The construction of the Kgodumodumo Interpretation centre is a strategic investment to support long-term economic upliftment of the Free State province.”
Communities around the area stand to benefit from employment opportunities created by this project. During construction, 113 local individuals were employed with 90% receiving on-the-job training. The facility includes several amenities such as lecture halls, exhibition areas, shops, activity nodes for children, parking spaces among others.
As part of commemorating South Africa’s 49th anniversary since Soweto uprising under theme “Skills for changing world,” fifteen youths who completed Tourist Guides Training program received qualifications which will enable them employment around Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Local businesses can expect increased opportunities through services offered at or near Kgodumodumo Centre where crafts food cultural experiences could thrive alongside international tourist visits encouraged under slogan ‘Come find your joy!’
