Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered his keynote address to scores of delegates gathered for the launch Africa Month celebrations.
Image: SA Government X Account
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has underscored the urgent need for the continent to preserve and promote Africa's rich and diverse cultural heritage for generations to come.
Speaking at the launch of Africa Month celebrations held at the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) headquarters in Midrand on Tuesday, Mashatile highlighted the critical importance of the continent's shared heritage as a beacon of unity, self-determination, and progress.
The event, organised by the African World Heritage Fund (AWHF) in collaboration with the DBSA and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), is part of Africa’s commemorative activities marking 20 years of investment in heritage, identity, and the future.
The proceedings, which were also attended by the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, also coincided with the 10th anniversary of the AWHF, an intergovernmental organisation dedicated to the conservation, management, and promotion of Africa’s cultural and natural heritage under the UNESCO World Heritage Convention.
"As we mark Africa Month and reflect on the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, we are reminded of Africa’s enduring commitment to unity, self-determination, and shared progress. We must never forget the moments that united Africa, and now we need to protect and celebrate our rich cultural heritage, and ensure that Africa never lacks cultural wealth," Mashatile remarked.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie and other delegates arriving in Midrand for the launch of Africa Month celebrations.
Image: Deputy President Paul Mashatile's X Account
The deputy president reinforced the significance of strengthening partnerships between governments, development finance institutions, the private sector, and community members to enhance heritage initiatives comprehensively.
He highlighted DBSA's involvement, saying this underscores the importance of viewing heritage not only as something to preserve, but also as something to invest in strategically.
"Unlocking the full value of Africa’s heritage requires deliberate and sustained effort. We must bridge the gap between cultural preservation and economic planning. This calls for stronger partnerships between governments, development finance institutions, the private sector, and communities."
Mashatile revealed that since the establishment of the AWHF, African states parties to the WHC have increased significantly, stating: "Over US$20 million has been invested in heritage capacity-building, resulting in thousands of professionals been trained, while in communities, women and youth now play a central role in heritage governance."
To strengthen continent-wide partnerships, Mashatile called for commitment and vigilance to ensure that the work of the fund and of Africa's broader heritage agenda prospers.