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Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile delivered the official Heritage Day 2025 keynote address on 24 September at Bridgeton Sport Grounds, Oudtshoorn, in the Western Cape Province.
The Deputy President spoke on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, leading a national reflection under the theme “Reimagine our heritage institutions for a new era.”
In his address, Mashatile called on all sectors of society government, families, cultural leaders, and civil organisations to rethink how heritage institutions operate, ensuring they remain relevant, inclusive, and economically viable.
Official Response
Mashatile emphasised that heritage is not static, and South Africa must build technologically innovative, socially responsive, and economically inclusive institutions.
“Museums, monuments and other heritage sites must become spaces of cultural diplomacy, inclusivity, intergenerational conversation, and laboratories of creativity,” he said.
He also addressed urgent social issues, including:
- Substance abuse, especially among youth
- Gender-based violence and femicide
- Crime, racism, and tribalism
Mashatile praised initiatives like the National Dialogue, the Clean Cities, Towns and Villages Campaign, and the One Million Trees Campaign, linking these efforts to the broader vision of sustainable, cohesive communities.
A special tribute was paid to Dr. Katrina Esau, the last fluent speaker of the N’uu language, and a Living Human Treasure.
Community Impact
The Deputy President’s call resonates in a country grappling with the legacy of apartheid and colonialism. His remarks reinforce the need for:
- Repatriation of stolen human remains and heritage objects
- Decolonisation of museums
- Celebration of indigenous knowledge systems
Citing leaders like Tata Madiba, Mashatile reaffirmed that cultural heritage is essential to nation-building, especially for youth identity and economic opportunity through tourism and the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why was Heritage Day 2025 held in Oudtshoorn?
Oudtshoorn’s rich cultural history, influenced by Khoisan people, Scottish stonemasons, and Jewish settlers, made it a fitting venue to explore the year’s theme.
- What is the central message of the Deputy President’s speech?
He called for a total reimagining of heritage institutions to serve modern South Africa embracing technology, inclusivity, and economic growth.
- What national challenges were addressed?
Mashatile spoke about substance abuse among youth, GBV, crime, and racial divisions urging collective action from all sectors of society.
- What is the significance of honouring Dr. Katrina Esau?
As the last speaker of N’uu, her work preserves ancient language and knowledge. She symbolizes the importance of safeguarding South Africa’s intangible cultural heritage.
- What government initiatives were highlighted?
The speech spotlighted the Clean Cities Campaign, the One Million Trees Campaign, National Dialogue, and heritage repatriation efforts.
