This R120 million investment, funded by the European Union through the South African National Treasury, represents a bold and joyful step forward in the country’s mission to create inclusive, educational, and globally compelling tourism experiences. The launch, scheduled for the 22nd of June,  is a milestone moment for the Department of Tourism, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), South African National Parks (SANParks), and the Free State provincial government.

Under the theme “A Nation That Works for All – Unearthing Our Past, Building Our Future,” the new centre offers an immersive celebration of Africa’s ancient story, spotlighting one of the world’s  oldest known dinosaur embryos ever discovered. With interactive exhibitions blending palaeontology, archaeology, geology, and cultural heritage, the centre promises to awaken curiosity and delight in every visitor - young and old. BaSotho people and their ancestors inhabited and explored this eastern Free State landscape for hundreds of years. Through their deep connection with the land, early BaSotho communities discovered fossil bones and footprints of unknown creatures. They imagined that these bones and footprints belonged to a mythical beast, “Kgodumodomo” and created stories about them that still feature in BaSotho mythology today.

“This centre is a symbol of what we mean when we say, Come Find Your Joy in South Africa,” said Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille. “Whether your joy is sparked by science, nature, culture, or connection, the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is an experience that brings it all together in a way that is locally rooted and globally inspiring.”

The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is not just about the past; it is an investment in the future. As part of its broader impact, the launch will include the graduation of newly trained local tourist guides, a testament to the project's role in empowering youth, women, and rural communities through skills development, job creation, and tourism-led economic growth.
Highlights of the Launch Event:

    Ministerial walkabout and exclusive media tour
    Keynotes by government and conservation leaders
    Certification ceremony for local tourist guides
    Cultural performances by traditional artists
    Live streaming for international audiences
    Interviews with dignitaries and exploration of fossil sites

The Kgodumodumo Centre is a true depiction of tourism championing inclusive, growth and driving South Africa’s determination to build a resilient tourism economy that is shared by all. Located within a UNESCO-quality setting of natural beauty, the centre will anchor longer stays in the region, support small business development, and deepen the Free State’s tourism profile, especially among adventure seekers, family travellers, and heritage tourists.

Come find your joy in South Africa, where ancient wonders meet modern marvels at the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre.