Limpopo Provincial Government commemorates Heritage Day in Sekhukhune
MOHLALETSE
The Limpopo Provincial Government has on Wednesday 24 September 2025, joined the rest of South Africa in celebrating Heritage Day at the Royal Kingdom Tjate III, in Mohlaletse Village, Fetakgomo-Tubatse Local Municipality (FTLM).
In attendance were Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, Queen Leganabatho II Manyaku Thulare of the Bapedi Royal Kingship, Speaker of the Limpopo Legislature, Makoma Makhurupetje, Executive Mayor of Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM), Cllr Minah Bahula, FTLM Mayor, Cllr Eddie Maila, traditional leaders and other government dignitaries.
The celebrations were held under the theme: “Reimagine Our Heritage Institutions for a New Era,” emphasizing the importance of leveraging heritage as a foundation for building a dynamic, socially responsive, technologically innovative, and economically inclusive future.
This year’s celebration highlights the crucial role of museums as custodians of memory and knowledge. Museums are uniquely positioned to lead the shift towards reimagining heritage institutions, making them relevant to present and future generations.
Heritage Day is a moment of reflection and celebration, reminding citizens of the importance of preserving, promoting, and reimagining heritage. The theme calls for bold thinking about the role of museums, archives, cultural centres, and heritage sites in shaping a modern, inclusive, and united society.
Delivering a keynote address, Premier Ramathuba highlighted the significance of heritage institutions in shaping the province’s identity and embracing innovations.
“Our heritage institutions are not relics of the past, but they are living spaces that must speak to the realities of today and the aspirations of tomorrow,” she said.
“As Limpopo, we are proud to contribute to reimagining these institutions so that they reflect our diverse identities, celebrate innovation, and remain relevant to the youth and generations to come,” she added.
The premier emphasized the importance of transforming museums and heritage sites into vibrant, inclusive spaces that engage young people and inspire them through a multi-faceted narrative of cultural heritage.
“In Limpopo alone, we are fortunate to have no less than 15 key museums, among them the Bakone Open Air Museum, which showcases our rich history and offers insights into the lives of the Bapedi people. Other notable institutions include the Mopungubwe Museum, Polokwane Art Museum, Muti wa Vatsomga Open Air Museum, Dzata Museum, Masorini Village museum, and the Thohoyandou Arts and Culture Centre amongst others. Each of these institutions plays a vital role in labouring to preserve our stories, but they must also evolve to meet the demands of our rapidly changing society,” she said.
Ramathuba stated that the province’s heritage institutions are not relics of the past, but they are living spaces that must speak to the realities of today and the aspirations of tomorrow.
“There is a need to reflect diverse identities, celebrate innovation, and remain relevant to the youth and future generations. It should be transformation of museums and heritage sites into vibrant spaces that engage young people and inspire them through a multi-faceted narrative of cultural heritage,” she said.
Cultural performance groups entertained the attendees, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the celebration.
The event also featured a showcase of local traditional attires, music and dance, promoting social cohesion and preserving cultural identity.
