SA's Human Rights and Liberation Sites Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites

“This serial property reflects the events and ideals central to South Africa’s liberation struggle, which continue to inspire global reconciliation and human rights efforts,” stated the Presidency.

The Presidency has celebrated the recent inscription of South African human rights and liberation struggle sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The newly recognized sites, collectively known as "The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites," include:

The Union Buildings

Constitution Hill

Liliesleaf

Sharpeville (comprising three component parts)

Walter Sisulu Square

16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West

University of Fort Hare and ZK Mathews House (comprising two component parts)

Mqhekezweni

Waaihoek

Ohlange

“This serial property reflects the events and ideals central to South Africa’s liberation struggle, which continue to inspire global reconciliation and human rights efforts,” stated the Presidency. The 14 sites collectively embody a strong commitment to the triumph of human rights and reconciliation.

Additionally, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee has recognized three Middle Stone Age sites for their role in understanding the origins of modern human behavior. These sites, part of "The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa," are:

Diepkloof Rock Shelter near Elands Bay, Western Cape

Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay, Western Cape

Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal

The inclusion of these sites raises South Africa’s World Heritage count to 12. The Presidency expressed deep appreciation to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for honoring the country’s historical and cultural legacy. Special thanks were extended to the Africa Group and the African World Heritage Fund, which aids in addressing challenges faced by African nations in preserving and promoting World Heritage sites.

The statement concluded with a call for all South Africans, government bodies, and heritage stakeholders to collaborate in preserving these invaluable treasures, ensuring they contribute to sustainable community development and reinforce the values of human rights, peace, and reconciliation.