Thousands gather during Heritage Day celebrations in Maropeng

The Gauteng Provincial Government in collaboration with the City of Mogale held a major Heritage Day celebration at the Maropeng Visitor Centre.

According to Ministry of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation spokesperson Nomazwe Ntlokwana, more than 4,000 people from across the province gathered at the visitors center of the famous World Heritage Site for the event.

“The day started with an important symposium entitled ‘A review of the concept of cultural heritage for the Cradle of Humanity, a World Heritage Site and what heritage means for the site’. The symposium, chaired by Maropeng, was attended by academics, historians, culture and heritage experts, government officials and tourism experts, among others,” she said.

The MEC for Education, Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, added that it is important that this important World Heritage site embodies the whole story of cultural heritage.

“This will also help connect with mainstream communities who may see the site as too academic and irrelevant for them.”

Other activities on the day included a colorful street parade with 2,000 students showcasing Gauteng’s diverse cultures through food, music, dance and clothing.

“An exhibition on traditional and government services was also held on the sidelines, featuring cultural and traditional healers, as well as various government services. A formal program addressed by various dignitaries was followed by a cultural program featuring various cultural groups, local artists and renowned musicians,” Nomazwe continued.

As Krugersdorp News attended the event, thousands gathered in traditional attire and passionate about their heritage. There were also performances from schools everywhere, with dancing and singing.