Celebrating the country’s heritage

AS PART of its Heritage and Tourism Month events, the Castle of Good Hope team has joined forces with, among others, the Congress of Traditional Leaders in South Africa – Contralesa (WC), the Cape Muslim and Slave Heritage Museum, Treasure Magazine, the South African Academy for Young Leaders, and the Camissa Museum, to celebrate and commemorate the country’s heritage in an inclusive, reconciliatory, and respectful manner.

Castle Control Board chief executive Calvyn Gilfellan said: “South Africans have been through a hectic 18 months or so. The pandemic has caused some of the worst pain, suffering and disruption in recent human memory. It has united but also divided us. Hence, 2021 focuses on healing, nation-building,and inclusion.

High Commissioner Aaron Messelaar, Griqua Royal House and Contralesa deputy-chairman said: “Recently, we have seen the commemoration of Adam Kok I at the Castle.

In a similar vein, the Camissa Museum is another example of how we try to deal with our painful past, our present shakiness, and our hope for the future.”

Several events have been planned for September 24 and 25.

The theme for Heritage Day 2021 is “The Year of Charlotte Maxeke: celebrating SA’s intangible cultural heritage”, while the theme for World Tourism Day (September 27) is “Tourism for inclusive growth”.

Highlights:

Free self-guided tours through 10 Castle exhibitions.

Khoi, Sotho, San and Nguni cultural performances.

A story-telling and life-history recording session.

A women’s wellness yoga session on the lawns led by Haniefa Jabaar.

A cultural talent competition organised by a local radio station.

Musical performances by members of the Pennsylvanians Minstrels.

A drama performance by the Beautiful Roses of Mfuleni.

Nederlandse liedjies by members of the Cape Malay Choir Board.

Gates open at 9am, and the programmes start at 10am.

Entry is free on September 24 and September 25, and strict health and safety protocols will be applied.

Another Heritage Day event worth visiting is the Boorhanul Islam Movement food fair in Bo-Kaap tomorrow and Saturday when visitors can experience the best of Cape Malay cuisine. The event takes place at the Boorhanul Centre in Pentz Street. |