Overstrand is excited to host two high-level Group of Twenty (G20) events. These will bring international leaders to the region and highlight its growing role in global innovation. Quite fittingly, too, these events coincide with Tourism Month, affording the Overstrand a unique opportunity to “market” its natural beauty and world-class hospitality to an audience that comes from all over the world.
From 1 to 3 September the sixth Space Economy Leaders Meeting (SELM) will be held at the Arabella Hotel & Spa near Kleinmond. This event forms part of a series of meetings of the Space20 engagement group, under South Africa’s G20 presidency, coordinated by the South African National Space Agency (Sansa), focused on using space technology to support inclusive and sustainable development.
The Overstrand was selected not only for its capacity to host high-level international events, but also for its strategic location at the heart of a future space hub. This includes Sansa’s internationally-recognised Space Science Facility in Hermanus, the only place in Africa where one will find a magnetically-clean research environment and an accredited Space Weather Centre.
The space hub also encompasses a rapidly-growing space industry, primarily based in Stellenbosch and Somerset West, that specialises in manufacturing satellite components. Furthermore, the Satellite Integration Facility near Grabouw is currently being upgraded, and the launch capability in Arniston has been earmarked for further expansion.
Later, on 11 September, the G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20) will also take place at Arabella. Delegates will engage in dialogue to promote inclusive growth, human rights and sustainable development, making this more than just a meeting, but a vital step towards a more equitable future. The summit will be preceded by the meetings of women and young parliamentarians.
