In celebration of World Tourism day that was on the 27th of September,  the Department of Science and innovation partnered with the Department of Tourism to unveil its National Astro Tourism Strategy, a pioneering initiative aimed at blending astronomy with tourism. This partnership, along with support from local municipalities and other stakeholders, aims to make the complex field of astrophysics accessible to all South Africans. The department says, the innovative strategy seeks to harness the country’s pristine night skies, inviting both local and international visitors to explore celestial phenomena, from stargazing to eclipses, while promoting job creation and community involvement. The  Deputy Director of Tourism Integration, Dr Laeticia Jacobs, expressed her excitement about the potential of this initiative. 

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She says one of the core objectives of the strategy is to uplift local communities, particularly in regions such as Carnarvon in the Northern Cape. The department says, the Astro Tourism Strategy aligns closely with South Africa’s broader goals in scientific and technological innovation, particularly in the field of astronomy. 

Journalist: Zizipho Moni
Email: zamamoni04@gmail.com