Dark sky tourism and sustainable development in Namibia

TL;DR

This paper explores how Namibia's dark skies can be leveraged for sustainable tourism development through education and stakeholder engagement, aiming to boost socio-economic growth.

Contribution

It introduces a collaborative approach using astronomy to promote dark sky tourism and capacity-building in Namibia.

Findings

Increased awareness among local guides and stakeholders.

Potential for sustainable socio-economic benefits.

Enhanced recognition of Namibia as a dark sky destination.

Abstract

Namibia is world-renowned for its incredibly dark skies by the astronomy community, and yet, the country is not well recognised as a dark sky destination by tourists and travellers. Forged by a collaboration between the Universities of Oxford and Namibia, together we are using astronomy as a means for capacity-building and sustainable socio-economic growth via educating tour guides and promoting dark sky tourism to relevant stakeholders.