Govender, KevinTakalana, Charles M.McBride, VanessaVenugopal, RamasamyMoss, Vanessa A.Blumenthal, KellyMdhluli, Joyful E.Chibueze, James O.Macfarlane, Sally A.Benkhaldoun, ZouhairRees, GlenLe Jeune, Alick J.Barocci-Faul, SumariBinneman, AntonBreytenbach, HannesCunnama, Daniel C.Girolamodibari, AndreaKobayashi, RikaKubheka, Duduzile V.Lekoloane, MolebogeSimpemba, Prospery C.Vertue, Dominic G.van Zyl, LaraZamxaka, Mthuthuzeli2025-05-232025-05-23http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=85212849423&partnerID=8YFLogxKhttps://hdl.handle.net/1885/733752598The XXXII IAU General Assembly, held for the first time on the African continent from 6–15 August 2024, marked a historic milestone in the global astronomy community. Driven by a bold vision, the event highlighted Africa's growing scientific capacity, and embodied the African spirit of Ubuntu, emphasizing accessibility, impact, and sustainability.4en© 2025 The Author(s)202510.1038/s41550-024-02447-w85212849423