UNESCO proclaims new World Heritage Site in WC and KZN

The Presidency has welcomed the latest inscription of South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites.

Diepkloof Rock Shelter - COURTESY: Cradle of Human Culture

The sites – termed as The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites – include the following:

- The Union Buildings

- Constitution Hill

- Liliesleaf

- Sharpeville (comprising three component parts)

- Walter Sisulu Square

- 16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West

- University of Fort Hare and ZK Mathews House (comprising two component parts)

- Mqhekezweni

- Waaihoek

- Ohlange

“Collectively, this serial property demonstrates the events and ideas that served as the core of South Africa’s liberation struggle, which continue to inspire humanity and the embrace of reconciliation, a quarter century later. The 14 components exemplify strong memories and beliefs in the triumph of human rights, liberation and reconciliation,” the Presidency said in a statement.

Furthermore, on Friday, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee also inscribed three Middle Stone Age sites as “recognition of South Africa’s significant contribution to the understanding of the origins of modern human behaviour”.

The three sites, inscribed is The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa, are:

- Diepkloof Rock Shelter close to Elands Bay, Western Cape

- Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay, Western Cape

- Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.

 

The addition of the two serial properties will bring South Africa’s number of World Heritage sites to 12.

Speaking at the Session, in response to the announcement of the inscription, Western Cape’s Cultural Affairs and Spor MECt, Ricardo Mackenzie, said:

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that I accept the prestigious recognition of The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa as a World Heritage Site. This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in our collective journey to preserve and celebrate the origins of modern human behaviour and our shared cultural heritage. The exceptional preservation of these sites, amidst the challenges of climate change and rising sea levels stand as testaments to our ancestors' resilience, ingenuity, and adaptation to environmental changes.”

“The integrity and authenticity of these sites have been meticulously preserved through the diligent efforts of international multidisciplinary teams of experts. Their work, grounded in the highest standards of archaeological practice, has ensured that the findings remain intact and continue to reveal new insights as research progresses. The commitment to protecting these sites under national heritage legislation and comprehensive management frameworks further ensures their preservation for future generations,’’ he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George