July is synonymous with Mandela Day, and has become in South Africa more of Mandela Month than merely one day. What better way to celebrate a man of such great stature than to visit cultural heritage sites and spaces that honour not only him, but our country as well.
In this article we take a look at a couple of key places to visit to honour the great man, Nelson Mandela, in Mpumalanga.
Namoya Masilela Museum
Bethal is a small town in Mpumalanga that has great history and culture. This museum, formerly known as Bethal Museum, is dedicated to freedom fighters who fought against the apartheid regime and racial discrimination. Renamed Namoya Masilela Museum after a student who was shot in protest in the mid 80’s.
The building itself was originally built in 1910 and restored in 2010 to welcome new visitors, and declared a national monument.
Within the museum you will see showcased liberation heroes and heroines such as Gert Sibande, Nokuthula Simelane, Ruth First and Henry Nxumalo.
Entrance to the museum is free, but donations are welcomed and ensure the museum is kept intact for many generations to come.
Visit the museum Mondays to Fridays from 09h00 to 14h30.
Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre
Located in Hazyview, the Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre offers the visitor a mind opening experience linked to cultural history.
Visit the centre for immersive experiences that include festivals, safaris, township tours and more! You’ll be spoiled with a variety of culturally focused formats such as traditional African storytelling, dancing and singing.
The experience itself is rich in culture and offers the visitors a memorable experience that will not soon be forgotten.
Situated in Hazyview, contact them for more information: info@inkosidmc.co.za.
The Liberation Heritage Route
Another great trip to do in honour of Nelson Mandela is the Liberation Heritage Route. This route outlines towns and places that were pertinent during the struggle years against apartheid.
The route itself will take you through the following towns: Bethal, Daggakraal, Ermelo, Saul Mkhizeville, Secunda, and Volksrust.
Each town has a history of freedom fighters that made the South Africa we see today a possibility. Learn more about these towns in our article that covers this particular tour, here: press-media/blog/the-liberation-heritage-route.
There is an abundance of cultural things to see related to Nelson Mandela and the struggle as well as history that determined the world we would live in today in our beautiful Mpumalanga. Take a drive through many of these towns and you will be greeted with a history that is fascinating to learn about.
Let us know where your Mandela Month took you and how you honoured the man himself.
