South Africa is making waves on the global stage once again. This time, it’s for something that’s been a part of our landscape and legacy for thousands of years. UNESCO has just added three new South African sites to its prestigious World Heritage List, bringing the total number of sites in South Africa to a phenomenal 12. 

New Kids on the Block

  1. The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites

First up, we have the Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, a collection of 14 locations spread across four provinces and seven municipalities. These aren’t just any sites; they encapsulate the heart and soul of the South African liberation struggle. From the iconic Union Buildings in Pretoria to Constitution Hill and from Sharpeville to the University of Fort Hare, each site tells a powerful story of resistance, resilience, and reconciliation. The other locations contributing to the site include: 

  • Liliesleaf farm 
  • Walter Sisulu Square
  • The Streets of Orlando West: honouring 16 June 197
  • Mqhekezweni
  • Waaihoek
  • Ohlange

“The 14 components exemplify strong memories and beliefs in the triumph of human rights, liberation and reconciliation,” the Presidency said in a statement.

  1. The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa

Next, we’re dialling the clock way back—like, way, way back. The Pleistocene Occupation Sites, which include Diepkloof Rock Shelter, Pinnacle Point, and Sibudu Cave, offer a window into the dawn of modern human behaviour. These sites in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal have yielded incredible insights into our ancestors’ cognitive evolution, dating back over 100,000 years. Think of them as the ancient equivalent of our Silicon Valley, but with more stone tools and fewer tech startups.

Old Friends 

With these new additions, South Africa now boasts 12 World Heritage Site.

 Let’s take a quick tour of some of our long-standing members:

  • Robben Island: Where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison, it’s a sobering reminder of our struggle against apartheid.
  • Cradle of Humankind: This site has been instrumental in unearthing some of the oldest hominid fossils, shedding light on our distant relatives.
  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park: A natural wonder, home to diverse ecosystems and stunning wildlife.
  • Cape Floral Region: Boasting one of the richest plant biodiversities in the world.
  • Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape: A significant archaeological site that was once the heart of the Kingdom of Mapungubwe.
  • Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape: Renowned for its cultural traditions and unique plant diversity.
  • ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape: Showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the ǂKhomani San people.
  • Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains: Providing insight into some of the oldest geological formations on the planet.
  • Vredefort Dome: The largest and oldest meteorite impact site in the world.
  • Maloti-Drakensberg Park: A stunning region known for its natural beauty and San rock art.

Getting a site recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is no small feat; it’s a process that requires meticulous planning, extensive research, and international cooperation. It starts with the country’s submission, demonstrating the site’s universal value, authenticity, and integrity. The submission is then evaluated by advisory bodies like the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Finally, the World Heritage Committee, comprising representatives from 21 countries, reviews these assessments and makes the final decision.

At the 46th World Heritage Committee meeting held in New Delhi, India, South Africa’s bids were scrutinised, celebrated, and ultimately approved, marking a significant achievement for the nation’s cultural and historical preservation efforts.

“It is an honour for South Africa to accept the inscription of two sites on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Government acknowledges the technical South African team, led by several government departments throughout the nomination process. Your tireless efforts have made this a reality for South Africa. You have made this nation proud,” said Nomonde Mnuka, Acting Director General of GCIS. 

The new sites aren’t just about adding more dots to the map. They represent a broader recognition of South Africa’s rich and complex history. The Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites serve as a poignant reminder of our journey towards equality and justice, while the Pleistocene sites highlight our role in the story of human evolution.

“We are now excited that the world, the global stage, is recognising these unique offerings. For the past ten years, we had to look at the ways in which we could consolidate our liberation heritage…and we had put this compelling nomination across,” said Thabo Manetsi, Acting CEO of the National Heritage Council of South Africa. 

These new inscriptions aren’t just badges of honour; they come with responsibilities.“World Heritage is both a major achievement and an important international responsibility. We urge all spheres of government, South Africans, and stakeholders to commit to and ensure that these properties receive adequate protection and support to preserve our legacy for future generations,” said Mnuka. 

In practical terms, this means more tourism, more jobs, and more opportunities to educate the world about our incredible history and heritage. It’s a win-win situation that underscores the importance of preserving these sites.

In the words of UNESCO, these sites are of “outstanding universal value.” So, let’s cherish them, celebrate them, and, most importantly, protect them. Here’s to our past, present, and future—three new World Heritage Sites at a time!

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