Why We Celebrate Heritage Day in South Africa
What is called heritage day?
Heritage Day on September 24 is a public holiday that celebrates South Africa’s roots, their rich, vibrant, and diverse cultures.
What is the history of the heritage day?
Heritage Day originated from Shaka Day, which was commemorated in honour of the renowned Zulu ruler. Shaka Zulu was significantly responsible for merging many local clans into one united Zulu nation in the Kwa-Zulu Natal area. South Africans were angry when Shaka Day was removed from the Public Holidays Bill before the New South African Parliament. The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) objected to the Bill, therefore a compromise was reached, and Heritage Day was born.
When was heritage day first initiated in South Africa?
Heritage day, previously known as “Shaka” day, was first initiated on the 24th of September, 1995.
Who created Heritage Day in South Africa?
The former state president Nelson Mandela initiated the heritage day.
Why we celebrate heritage day in South Africa?
The day is celebrated to remember the cultural heritage of many cultures that make up the population of South Africa and unite them as a nation.
How has South Africa chosen to celebrate their heritage?
The event is celebrated by wearing cultural attire and having a barbeque which was an initiative by Jan Scannell.
What is the conclusion of Heritage Day?
It is vital day to both the people and the nation as a whole and should to be recognized, commemorated, and celebrated constantly.
How many heritage sites are in South Africa?
South Africa has nine world heritage sites proclaimed by UNESCO namely:
1. Table Mountain
2. De Hoop Nature Reserve
3. Boland mountain complex
4. Groot Winterhoek wilderness area
5. Wartburg mountains
6. Boosmansbos wilderness area
7. Cederberg wilderness area
8. Baviaanskloof
9. Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
