The Department Arts,Culture Sports and Recreation, in partnership with Moses Kotane Local Municipality , hosted this year’s Provincial Heritage Celebration on Tuesday, 30 September 2025, at Tlhaalapitse Primary School in Mokgalwaneng.
The event was attended by dignitaries including MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Ms. Virginia Tlhapi; MEC Suzanne Dantjie; Kgosi Nyalala Pilane and members of the Pilane royal family; the Acting Mayor of Bojanala District Municipality, Cllr. Annietjie Selebogo and Mayor of Moses Kotane Local Municipality, Cllr. Nketu Nkotswe.
Programme Director, Mr. Thabo Mabe, steered the proceedings.
In her welcome remarks, Mayor Cllr Nketu Nkotswe acknowledged the traditional leadership led by Kgosi Pilane and highlighted the importance of preserving cultural values and heritage.
“The intention is to make sure our heritage is passed on to future generations. We must not forget where we come from, and it is our responsibility to ensure that knowledge is transferred to those who will come after us,” he said.
Ward Councillor Matsapa Mabula formally introduced the guests before messages of support were shared. Mr. Mothusiotsile Maditsi from North West University emphasized the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into the curriculum and the use of modern technologies to safeguard and share heritage.
Mr. Steve Mashiya of the Moses Kotane Foundation gave a brief historical background of the late struggle icon, while Motlhabane Mosiane encouraged communities to continue teaching and practicing cultural traditions.
Delivering the keynote address, MEC Tlhapi stressed the importance of unity, respect, and the preservation of cultural identity.
“This day serves as a touching reminder of who we are. Our enduring strength is found in our identity. Each language and tradition tells a true story of our heritage,” she said.
MEC Tlhapi further called on South Africans to embrace one another, avoid fueling conflict, and honor traditional leaders. She also emphasized the potential of the heritage sector to stimulate economic growth and create jobs, particularly by turning abandoned mines into historical sites.
She urged authors to document the rich history of the Bakgatla ba Kgafela to ensure that it is preserved for future generations.
The highlight of the event was the symbolic handing over of newly published books by Kgosi Pilane, MEC Tlhapi, and Mayor Nkotswe, with the Department pledging support for individuals interested in writing and publishing their cultural stories.
In closing remarks, Kgosi Nyalala Pilane emphasized that the month of September is dedicated to celebrating and preserving heritage. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Department of Arts and Culture for their continued support in empowering young people to write and publish books, noting that such initiatives ensure that the voices and stories of communities are not lost. He further acknowledged the vital role played by traditional healers, describing them as custodians of indigenous knowledge and a living reflection of cultural identity. Kgosi Pilane encouraged the youth to embrace their roots, learn from their elders, and use their talents to build a legacy that future generations will be proud of. He concluded by reminding everyone that heritage is not only about remembering the past, but also about protecting traditions and values that strengthen unity and dignity among communities.
Ends
Issued by Communication Unit
