Sekhukhune - Young and old, from all walks of life, have converged in their thousands to celebrate National Heritage Day at the Ntwampe Sports Ground in Sekhukhune, Limpopo.
Crowds of people have gathered in the hot sun to celebrate this day and to listen to Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe's address to the nation.
Dressed in her traditional garb, resident Mme Mogomotsi Sewela, 62, told BuaNews she was proud to be South African.
"I've decided to grace this occasion by wearing my traditional gear to show how proud I am of my culture. In that way people from other cultures who are attending the event could have an idea of how the Pedi's dress when attending important events especially this traditional one."
She said Heritage Day was an opportunity for young people to be taught more about their culture. "It is important that our young people should know their traditions and cultures."
South Africans, young and old, who were dressed in different traditional attire, displayed the country's rich culture and diversity. Some were dressed in vibrant colours such as pinks, greens, yellow, oranges and blues.
September marks national Heritage Month and this year's theme is: "Celebrating South African Craft, Our Heritage."
During this month, the Department of Arts and Culture will pay tribute in particular to the crafters, many of whom are found in the rural areas, who have made a significant contribution to the development of the country's rich heritage.
Crafters have over the years produced a vibrant craft legacy by using natural resources and recycled products such as plastic bags, paper, card boxes and wires, among others, from their communities.
Although the crafts industry has gradually moved from being just a mere expression of an individual's skills to entrepreneurship, practitioners still lack protection from exploitation.
