The Presidency is pleased with the recent inclusion of South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in UNESCO’S World Heritage Sites list.
This recognition came after the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India, from July 21 to 31, 2024.
The inscribed sites, known as The Human Rights, Liberation, and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, consist of fourteen components located in four provinces and seven municipalities across South Africa. These components include iconic sites like the Union Buildings, Constitution Hill, Liliesleaf, Sharpeville, Walter Sisulu Square, and others, symbolizing the core of South Africa’s liberation struggle.
These sites serve as a testament to the triumph of human rights, liberation, and reconciliation, inspiring generations even after a quarter of a century.
Additionally, three Middle Stone Age sites were also recognized for their contribution to understanding modern human behavior.
South Africa’s World Heritage Sites now total 12, with new additions like the Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour in Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
The Union Buildings now stand alongside global landmarks like the Kremlin, Taj Mahal, and The Vatican on the prestigious World Heritage List.
The Presidency extends gratitude to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, the Africa Group, and the African World Heritage Fund for their support in achieving this significant milestone.
It also acknowledges the efforts of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape, and calls for continued collaboration to preserve and leverage these heritage sites for sustainable development and promoting values of human rights, freedom, and reconciliation.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.