Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, and Minister of Tourism, Ms Patricia de Lille, will launch the Astro-Tourism Strategy tomorrow on World Tourism Day. The Strategy was recently approved by the Cabinet.
The launch will take place in Carnarvon, Northern Cape. The Province is set to become the hub of Astro tourism in South Africa in a unique initiative that will combine the vast beauty of the Karoo with groundbreaking astronomy.
The Astro-Tourism Strategy is a collaboration between the Department of Science and Innovation and the Department of Tourism and is expected to boost economic growth in the area by encouraging tourism.
The vastness of the Karoo and its location away from noise and light pollution make the area a prime spot for the study of celestial bodies and events.
The launch event coincides with World Tourism Day, which is celebrated annually as part of Tourism Month in South Africa.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, and Minister of Tourism, Ms Patricia de Lille, will address the event. The launch will be preceded by a Desert Golf Challenge, hosted by the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO).
The media are invited as follows:
SARAO Desert Golf Challenge
Date: 27 September 2024
Time: 08:45 for 09:00
Venue: Carnarvon Golf Club, R63, Carnarvon (Opposite the Carnarvon Air Strip
Launch of Astro-Tourism Strategy
Date: 27 September 2024
Time: 10:00 to 13:00
Venue: Carnarvon Primary School
Issued by the Department of Science and Innovation.
For more information, please contact Veronica Mohapeloa at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 082 882 3818.