As Heritage Month draws to a close, government has called on South African institutions and communities to work together to safeguard the country’s heritage and ensure that its diverse histories, languages and traditions are recognised.
Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Deputy Director-General Michael Currin described South Africa’s shared heritage as a living resource that promotes social cohesion, strengthens identity, supports nation-building and drives innovation and inclusive development.
“With the advent of democracy, South Africa set out to build a national identity rooted in dignity, equality and mutual respect. Heritage Day became part of this nation-building project – a public holiday that recognises different cultural identities while affirming that all should exist in harmony and unity as one South Africa,” Currin said in Pretoria on Wednesday.
Speaking at a dialogue titled: “South Africa’s Heritage as a Key Milestone: Institutions and Society”, Currin said the country’s shared heritage and cultural diversity could foster unity, belonging and mutual respect.
“Heritage Day is a reminder that South Africa’s diversity is not a source of division, but a foundation for unity, social cohesion and nation-building. It is a day to honour the histories, languages, traditions and living heritage of all communities while renewing our commitment to an inclusive democratic future,” Currin said.
He added that respectful partnerships between institutions and communities could deepen trust, strengthen social cohesion and foster a shared sense of national belonging.
“Universities, museums, heritage sites, archives and cultural bodies help society preserve knowledge, memory and living heritage for future generations.
“Community media preserves heritage by documenting local histories, amplifying indigenous languages and cultural traditions, and giving communities a platform to pass their knowledge and stories to future generations,” Currin said.
The dialogue provided a platform for critical reflection on heritage, freedom, democratic memory and society’s role in shaping a shared national future.
“South Africa is a nation of diverse cultures, languages, histories and traditions, each contributing to the richness of our national identity. Our heritage is preserved by our people and finds expression in the languages we speak, the stories we tell, our music and dance, the food we prepare, and the clothes and crafts we create.
“Of course, much of what we are becoming as a nation is being shaped by young South Africans as they build and develop new identities, new connections, and new ways of being and creating … all of which, if I may say, I find very exciting and refreshing for our national identity,” Currin said.
Heritage Day is observed annually on 24 September. This year, Heritage Month was commemorated under the theme: “Celebrating Our Living Heritage: Strengthening the Ties That Bind Us”.
Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) Chief Executive Officer Shoeshoe Qhu raised concerns about gaps in media coverage of South Africa’s diverse cultures, particularly on technology-enabled platforms that could help communities share their stories and deepen understanding of their origins.
“I think we make an occasion of our heritage. Once the month comes to an end, we put the blankets and beads away until there is either a wedding or September next year,” she said.
Qhu urged mainstream media to help preserve South Africa’s cultural heritage by telling more stories about its traditions and communities.
“For those working in media and communication, we must intentionally use technology to ensure that knowledge acquired outside academic institutions is given the legitimacy and authority it deserves, rather than being undermined.
“There is a great deal of work to be done. Preserving this knowledge cannot be left solely to community media. Some South African languages have rich traditions, yet little written presence and almost no representation in mainstream media. People have to seek them out. I therefore believe we have a greater responsibility,” she said.
Currin said Heritage Month gave South Africans an opportunity to explore their heritage, deepen their collective identity and build stronger, more cohesive communities.
“Heritage Month provides a unifying platform for individuals and communities to reaffirm their commitment to social cohesion, cultural diversity and the enduring values of Ubuntu.
“Living heritage is a dynamic and community-centred resource that not only reflects our past, but actively contributes to nation-building, intergenerational dialogue and inclusive development.
“By encouraging broad community participation, Heritage Month empowers local voices, strengthens cultural expression and celebrates the rich tapestry of traditions that define South Africa’s diverse identity,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
