Explore the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre: A gateway to South Africa's prehistoric heritage

IOL News

2 days ago

Inside the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre at the Golden Gate Park.
Image: Supplied
In the scenic Golden Gate Highlands National Park, a groundbreaking initiative has brought to life the fascinating story of dinosaurs that once roamed the Free State.
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre, recently launched by Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, is a testament to the region's rich paleontological heritage and the Basotho people's connection to their land.
The centre has evolved beyond merely being a tourist attraction; it has become a hub of scientific discovery and cultural significance.
It features life-sized dinosaur sculptures, interactive exhibits, and educational displays that showcase the region's unique fossil findings.
Visitors can explore the history of dinosaurs that lived in the area over 200 million years ago, including the Ledumahadi Mafube, a 12-ton, 12-meter-long South African dinosaur.
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is a celebration of the Basotho people's heritage and their connection to the land.
The centre's name, "Kgodumodumo", is derived from the Sesotho word for "Great Giant", referring to a mythical monster said to have roamed the Maluti mountains that border Lesotho.
The centre's launch marks a significant milestone in preserving the cultural and scientific heritage of the region.
"We are proud to share this heritage with the world and inspire future generations to learn about and appreciate our ancient past," said De Lille during the launch ceremony.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille and His Majesty Moremoholo Mopeli of the Bakoena Kingdom.
Image: Supplied
She added that the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre was a result of a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, SANParks, and the European Union.
The centre's design and content were informed by scientific research and Basotho mythology, ensuring an oral, authentic, and engaging experience for visitors.
"The centre's goal is to draw attention to the region's underappreciated but rich prehistoric history," said Professor Jonah Choiniere, a paleontologist from the University of the Witwatersrand.
Added De Lille: "We want to tell this story to South Africans and international tourists while bringing elements of the Basotho culture into this."
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
In its opening, the centre has already employed 15 permanent staff members from the surrounding communities. It also claims to provide opportunities for local SMMEs to offer goods and services to visitors.
"The centre will boost economic development, create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for surrounding communities, and further attract investment and development," De Lille said.
The state-of-the-art centre is set to become a major tourist attraction in the province, drawing visitors from around the world.
The building, if viewed from the top, is shaped like a dinosaur, and its unique blend of science, culture, and natural beauty makes it an exciting destination for anyone interested in learning about the region's fascinating past.
"We envision that this tourism facility will ensure repeat visits, keep visitors longer, and more importantly, help them spend more money in our captivating destinations," De Lille said.
The Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre building viewing for the top.
Image: Supplied
To promote the centre and encourage visitors, SANParks has announced free entry to the Kgodumodumo Dinosaur Interpretation Centre until September 30, 2025.
'This initiative will allow schools, tertiary students, and communities adjacent to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park to benefit from the centre's offerings,' SANParks' JP Louw said.
As a hub of discovery and education, the centre will inspire future generations to learn about and appreciate the fascinating history of the Free State's dinosaurs, according to Louw.