By Johnathan Paoli
As South Africa prepares to celebrate Heritage Day on Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reflected on the country’s diverse cultural heritage, hailing it as one of its most valuable assets.
In his weekly letter on Monday, the president said the day served as a reminder of the rich traditions, customs and languages that formed the backbone of South African identity, particularly following the painful legacy of apartheid that marginalised many indigenous practices.
“Heritage Day has become a significant event in the national calendar, promoting cross-cultural exchange and fostering understanding among the country’s diverse ethnic groups,” the letter reads.
“Communities, schools, and workplaces across the nation will engage in celebrations that highlight unique traditions, cuisine, dress, and music, demonstrating the vibrancy of South African culture.”
In a message to the nation, the president emphasised the importance of heritage preservation not only for cultural pride, but also as a driver of economic growth and job creation.
He said the United Nations recognised this connection in its 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in its goals to safeguard cultural and natural heritage.
The president praised the country’s eight Unesco World Heritage Sites, including Robben Island and the Cradle of Humankind, alongside numerous historical sites that reflected the country’s journey through pre-colonial, colonial, apartheid, and democratic eras. He said they not only attracted tourists, but also served as educational platforms for younger generations, promoting awareness of the nation’s complex history.
In December last year, more than 400,000 visitors explored sites like the Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island, underscoring the potential of heritage tourism to stimulate local economies.
However, many lesser-known sites struggled for funding and maintenance, leading to disrepair and lost opportunities for local communities.
To address this challenge, the president said a call has been made for increased collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society in preserving heritage, especially in marginalised communities.
“Initiatives like the Presidential Employment Stimulus provide young South Africans with opportunities in fields related to heritage, such as cultural project management and storytelling,” Ramaphosa said.
The president cautioned that while some heritage sites received support from corporate sponsors, many others remained overlooked.
He encouraged businesses to join forces with the government to revitalise and maintain historical and cultural landmarks to ensure that they remain vital parts of the national narrative.
Ramaphosa said that as South Africans celebrated Heritage Day, the message remained clear: by working together to preserve and promote the nation’s heritage, all stakeholders can uplift communities and foster a shared sense of pride in the country’s rich cultural tapestry.
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