By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is poised to transform tourism and economic development in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District and the Free State.
Minister of Tourism Patricia De Lille has launched the centre on Sunday at the SANParks Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State.
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is going to provide a state-of-the-art visitor experience, nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Tourism, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE),South African National Parks (SANParks), and the Free State provincial government.
This R120 million investment, funded by the European Union through the South African National Treasury, represents a significant step forward in the country’s mission to create inclusive, educational and globally compelling tourism experiences.
The new centre will celebrate Africa’s ancient history, highlighting one of the world’s oldest known dinosaur embryos ever discovered.
The BaSotho people and their ancestors have inhabited and explored this eastern Free State landscape for centuries.
“It started with a successful land claim where the Basotho community agreed with the government that land can be developed,” said De Lille.
The centre aims to offer a world-class visitor experience by showcasing South Africa’s rich archaeological, paleontological, and geological heritage through cutting-edge scientific exhibits.
De Lille said these exhibits will not only attract tourists but will also educate locals and visitors alike about the ancient natural history that lies beneath the surface of the region.
She emphasised the strategic importance of the project in boosting tourism in a province that has historically been underrepresented in South Africa’s tourism narrative.
“The whole intention is that the Free State is one of the less visited provinces and with this new tourist attraction, we will draw more visitors to come to the Free State.
“But as a country, it also helps us to diversify our tourism offering. You know the perception that we’re all about safaris and things like that. We want to show these hidden gems and that there is a lot more in terms of value for the community,” De Lille added.
The centre is not only a scientific and educational marvel but also a cornerstone of economic development and job creation.
De Lille highlighted that small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) will be among the primary beneficiaries.
Already, 15 local tour guides have been trained as part of the department’s efforts to prepare the community for incoming tourism opportunities.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said the centre is not just a building. It’s a living window into our prehistoric past, and a powerful tool for education, inclusion and inspiration.
George said, visitors will journey through time, exploring South Africa’s rich fossil record, learning about Earth’s evolutionary history, and understanding the fragile balance of biodiversity we must now protect.
“This project reflects the Department’s deep commitment to environmental education and community rooted conservation. It will serve as a source of pride for surrounding communities, a space of learning for schools and researchers, and a place of wonder for future generations, added George.