By More Matshediso
Mokomene – South Africans, gathered at the National Heritage Day celebrations in Limpopo, say it is time to reflect on African origins and instil the importance of heritage in youth.
“Youth do not understand the importance of preserving our heritage and celebrating our culture and tradition. They regard this day as a day for braais and entertainment,” Matsokolo Motsapola told SAnews on Thursday during the celebrations in Ramokgopa Stadium, in Mokomene, Limpopo.
The 47-year-old said South Africans must bring back the pride in their own culture.
“If our local fashion designers could focus their fashion lines in promoting traditional clothing, we could appreciate and support them more,” she said.
Motsapola, of Sekakene village in Botlokwa, near Polokwane, was with her friend Shiya Mogale.
Mogale shared the similar sentiments about instilling the love of native culture and tradition in youth.
“We need to educate our children about tradition and culture in schools, so that they can learn the importance of heritage and celebrating it. Community organisations can also play their part in forming small youth groups that promote culture,” said the 44-year-old.
Mogale said celebrating Heritage Day is important because it takes her back to the origins of her existence, and encourages her to wear her traditional clothes and revisit her customs and cook traditional food.
They spoke to SAnews during traditional performances ahead of the official programme for the day.
Acting President Cyril Ramaphosa will on behalf of President Jacob Zuma shortly address the nation.
He will be supported by Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa, some Cabinet Ministers, and Premier Stanley Mathabathe.
This year's Heritage Day Celebrations will be held under the theme, "Our indigenous knowledge, our heritage: Towards the identification, promotion and preservation of South Africa's living heritage”.
“This seeks to reconnect all South Africans, black and white to our rich and diverse collective heritage.
“Government calls on all our communities to utilise this occasion to promote and embrace our cultural diversity and contribute to the overall national thrust aimed at nation building and social cohesion,” said the Presidency on Wednesday.
Deputy President Ramaphosa is expected to visit a local exhibition showcasing South African heritage as well as the heritage of other communities in South Africa.
This includes among others indigenous foods, craft, dance, music, instruments and objects. - SAnews.gov.za
