CEO of the NHC, Dr Thabo Manetsi at the Griqua National Conference in Ratelgat
The National Heritage Council commemorated the 2024 National Day of Reconciliation together with the build-up activities in the Western Cape province. The national commemoration took place on 16 December 2024 in Vredendal, Matzikama Local Municipality in the Western Cape. The commemoration served as a clarion call for all sectors of society to play an active role in promoting, healing of the nation and was convened under the theme: “Healing Historical Wounds and Forging New Futures”.
This year’s theme underscores the need for inclusive nation building that allows to acknowledge those who have selflessly sacrificed their lives for freedom.
In South Africa, the entire month of December is dedicated to reconciliation. Throughout the month the country reflects on its history, acknowledges the contribution of the nation’s veterans and work to heal wounds of past injustices.
As part of the build-up activities, the Chief Executive Officer of the NHC, Dr Manetsi was invited to the Griqua National Conference in Ratelgat together with other stakeholders by the Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzi which took place on the eve of the Reconciliation Day – 15 December.
The Griqua National Conference intends to keep the Griqua heritage alive, preserve the culture and infrastructure of the Griqua nation.
The Council further joined the South African government in the national day commemoration at where services and programmes of the NHC were presented to the Western Cape community of Vredendal on how together with other stakeholders can contribute to the preservation and promotion of their Cultural Heritage for nation building and heal the wounds of the past.
Reconciliation Day coincided with 30 Years of our Democracy celebration, it also reflected on the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), which helped our country deal with the wounds inflicted by apartheid. The TRC advanced peace, reconciliation, tolerance and social cohesion. Reconciliation Month commemoration takes place three months after the country received 35 human remains of South Africans who were buried while in exile in Zimbabwe and Zambia. The next phase of the project will focus on the repatriation of the remains of South Africans buried in Angola.
This initiative is crucial for national healing, allowing families to find closure and honour the memory of those who fought for freedom and justice. Moreover, it is part of the South African government commitment to honour and restore the legacy of those who selflessly sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom.
