The Department of Arts and Culture is this week expected to provide an update on the renovations of the house of the late struggle stalwart, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, in Brandfort in the Free State.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa will on Wednesday visit the house as part of government’s commitment to restore the historically significant House Number 802.
In November 2017, the department appointed Risimati Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd, as the new Implementing Agent for the renovation of the house.
The consulting engineers developed a detailed project implementation plan and a revised design, which focuses on the restoration of the dwelling house and bombed clinic, converting them to interpretative spaces; and the construction of a multi-purpose centre with an internet hub and Wi-Fi facilities.
During his visit, Mthethwa will provide an update on the restorations and development of the site; express the government’s intention to declare the house a national heritage site, and unveil the artistic impression of the restored site and museum.
Mthethwa will also place flowers at the project site to honour the late liberation struggle heroine on her birthday.
Madikizela-Mandela was banished to Brandfort in 1977 by the apartheid government. – SAnews.gov.za