Thousands gather during the Heritage Day celebration at Maropeng
More than 4 000 people descended on Maropeng for a major Heritage Day celebration.
The Gauteng Provincial Government in collaboration with Mogale City held a major Heritage Day celebration at Maropeng Visitor Centre.
According to the spokesperson for the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Nomazwe Ntlokwana, more than 4 000 people from across the province gathered at the visitor centre of the famous World Heritage Site for this event.
“The day kicked off with an important symposium titled ‘Revisiting the concept of Cultural Heritage for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and what constitutes heritage for the site’. This symposium, led by Maropeng, featured academics, historians, cultural and heritage experts, government officials, and tourism experts, among others,” she said.
The MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, added it is important to have this important World Heritage Site embody the entire story of cultural heritage.
“This will also help forge a connection with ordinary communities who might regard the site as too academic and irrelevant for them.”
Other activities on the day included a colourful street parade featuring 2 000 learners who showcased the diverse cultures of Gauteng through food, music, dance and attire.
“Also happening on the sidelines was a traditional and government services exhibition featuring cultural and traditional healers, as well as various government departments. A formal programme addressed by various dignitaries was followed by a cultural programme featuring diverse cultural groups, local artists and well-known musicians,” Nomazwe continued.
As the Krugersdorp News attended the event, thousands gathered in traditional attire and passion for their heritage. There were also performances from schools all over, dancing and singing.
