On this day, South Africans across the spectrum are encouraged to celebrate their culture and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions, in the wider context of a nation that belongs to all of its people.
Each year on Heritage Day, South Africans dig deep into their wardrobes and fish out their traditional attire to celebrate their unity in diversity.
Some citizens, however, see this as a day to meet together with friends and undertake what has become a unique South African tradition – buy plenty of boerewors for a braai, although this has been questioned.
Formally known as Shaka Day before 1995, the day is a national holiday and gives South Africans a chance to pause and take stock how their diversity can contribute to building a better South Africa.
Government has called on citizens to promote their African identity by dressing up in their traditional outfits, to share knowledge of cultures and learn a new African language as part of celebrating the country’s living heritage.
Communities have been encouraged to observe the day as an opportunity to take pride in their unique rich culture and celebrate the African identity in its entirety.
“Heritage Day is not only a day for South Africans to gather for braai or parties, but it is a significant occasion to showcase our great diversity and celebrate our uniqueness,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director General, Donald Liphoko.
This year celebrations will be hosted at Galeshewe Stadium in Kimberley, Northern Cape, under the theme, “Celebrating our Human Treasures by Asserting our African Identity”.
The programme of the National Heritage Day Celebration will include a keynote address by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa as well as a diverse cultural programme embracing different cultures through music, poetry and dance.
A cultural exhibition showcasing various tantalising indigenous foods will also be on offer.
As part of Heritage Day celebrations, the Department of Sport and Recreation is hosting the 2016 National Indigenous Games Festival from the September 24-28 at Seshego Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo.
Teams from all nine provinces are expected to participate in the Games, a family occasion which promises a vibrant carnival atmosphere.
Happy Heritage Day. Pula!
