​Thembisa Shologu
The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) will use this year's Heritage Day to appreciate the many facets of our cultures and traditions.
Under the theme: 'The year of Charlotte Maxeke: Celebrating South Africa's Intangible Cultural Heritage' the province will mark the day at the historical Cradle of Humankind in Maropeng, Westrand.
The Cradle of Humankind, which is one of the World Heritage Sites in the country, offers a world-class exhibition centre focusing on the development of humans and their ancestors over the past few million years.
It's the world's richest hominin site, home to around 40% of the world's human ancestor fossils.
Reflecting on the importance of heritage in nation-building, MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Mbali Hlophe said the process entails a commitment to work together to eradicate the divisions and injustices of the past, to foster unity and to promote a countrywide conscious sense of being proudly South African.
This is outlined in the national strategy for Developing an Inclusive and Cohesive Nation. 
This year's programme will include multicultural food and fashion market, craft market and musical dance performances from various cultural groups in full compliance with Covid-19 regulations.
Earlier this month, Minister for Department of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa called on all South Africans to pass on their cultural heritage to their children. 
"In the month of September, we call on all South Africans to pass on their cultural heritage to their children. 
"Our call to action is in our culture endeavours to promote conversation and illustration of South Africans sharing the pride of their culture in food, music, rites and created practices of indigenous knowledge system," said Mthethwa. ​