funded by the DARA (Development in Africa through Radio Astronomy) project, through the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council
Botswana’s diamond trade has generated significant wealth, elevating the country to upper middle-income status. However, this prosperity is uneven, leaving other sectors underdeveloped and the economy vulnerable due to limited diversification. Most jobs are concentrated in urban areas, contributing to a 25.9% unemployment rate in late 2023, with women making up 53.3% of the unemployed, predominantly from rural regions. This highlights the need for initiatives addressing unemployment and gender disparity, especially in rural regions.
In many rural areas of Botswana, wilderness safaris are a key source of employment and economic activity. However, this sector is underutilized, limiting job opportunities. With some of the best dark skies, these regions offer a prime opportunity to diversify into astro-tourism, creating more local jobs.
Astronomy studies in Botswana is still developing, leading to limited local knowledge about the cosmos. As a result, astro-tourism is absent from safari guide training programs. By incorporating astro-tourism, we aim to diversify tourism, engage more guides, and promote stargazing experiences. We are also encouraging greater participation of women to address the male-dominated tourism industry.
The pilot program for this initiative will be implemented in collaboration with Ambire Training Services, a reputable institution in Kasane, Botswana, known for offering short courses, including safari guide training. The project will develop a comprehensive night sky astronomy program that covers celestial navigation, constellation identification, the importance of dark skies, and the integration of local astronomical myths and cultural stories. With the support of Ambire Training Services, we will seek accreditation for the short course certificate for this program.
In the initial phase, staff at Ambire Training Services will undergo training to ensure they are fully prepared to deliver the new curriculum. The program will then be offered as a short course with certification to safari tour guides interested in integrating astro-tourism into their services. The first cohort of about 10 safari guides will receive admin support, with 60% of the spots dedicated to women to promote gender equality in the tourism industry. After training, we will continue mentoring graduates through their respective work experiences, allowing them to apply their new skills in the field.
To ensure the project’s sustainability and success, we will implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework. Regular assessments and feedback will enable continuous improvement of the program, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of the tourism industry.
