
The 2024 Heritage Day was celebrated under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of Heroes and Heroines Who Laid Down Their Lives for Our Freedom.” “This is more than just a day of festivities; it is a time of reflection on the rich and diverse cultural heritage that makes us who we are as South Africans and, more specifically as proud residents of Limpopo, ” said Premier of Limpopo Dr. Phophi Ramathuba speaking to the people of Limpopo.
“Today, we are privileged to be in a province renowned for its cultural diversity, where the heritage of the Pedi, Venda, Tsonga, Ndebele, English, Afrikaner, Indian, and Coloured communities converge into one harmonious tapestry. Limpopo is a testament to the beauty of diversity and the strength that lies in embracing different cultures. There is no better place to reflect on our shared heritage than here, in our province blessed with natural beauty and cultural diversity,” added Premier.
She continued that, “Today’s celebration coincides with Tourism Month, and it gives us the perfect opportunity to reflect on how deeply intertwined our heritage is with our tourism sector. Our mountains, rivers, wildlife, and cultural history form the bedrock of our tourism industry, drawing visitors from across the globe. Let us be reminded of the vital role both tourism and heritage play in shaping our identity and driving economic development.”
“Programme Director, as we celebrate this day, it is fitting to take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us. Limpopo our beloved province, is blessed with awe-inspiring landsacapes- from the majestic Soutpansberg mountains to the life-giving rivers such as the Limpopo, Luvuvhu, and Olifants, stands as a testament that our province is rich in heritage. Limpopo’s nature reserves, like the Mapungubwe, Marakele National Park, Lekgalameetse Nature Reserves, and Kruger National Parks, are not only conservation sites but sacred spaces where our heritage and biodiversity intersect,” highlighted Premier.
“How can we not boast our other heritage sites like: the Makapans Valley World Heritage in Waterberg, the D’Nyala Nature Reserve in Watrrberg, the Doorndraai Dam in Waterberg, the Flag Boshielo Dam in Sekhukhune and the Schoemansdaal Museum in the Vhembe District, Muti wa Vatsonga Mueseum in Mopani District, Dzata Museum in Vhembe District, Tjate Heritage Site in Shekhukhune District, and Tshitangadzimeni Resistance and Liberation Route in Vhembe District,” said Premier.
“As we look upon these wonders, let us remember that this province is not only a reservoir of natural beauty but also a repository of rich cultural traditions that have stood the test of time. I therefore urge every one of us to become ambassadors of Limpopo’s rich heritage and tourism offerings. Let us promote our local attractions, support local businesses, and invite tourists from all corners of the world to experience the beauty and culture of our province,” emphasized Premier.