South Africans mark Heritage Day

By Hassan Isilow

JOHANNESBURG

South Africans across the country on Wednesday celebrated Heritage Day, with many dressed in traditional attire showcasing the country's cultural diversity.

"I am proud to dress in my cultural attire because this shows who I am and where I come from," Precious Jabulile – decked out in striking Zulu attire – told Anadolu Agency in Johannesburg.

She joined many others heading to the city's historic Constitution Hill for a special celebration.

"I am a Xhosa by tribe and happy to be celebrating here with my fellow South Africans dressed in their different cultural clothes," said Boniswa Valencia.

Heritage Day, celebrated each year on September 24, is a public holiday in South Africa.

South Africans are encouraged to celebrate their traditions in recognition of the country's diverse array of cultures and beliefs.

South Africa has 11 official languages and several ethnic groups, which include blacks, Indians, colored and whites.

Most South Africans speak more than one language. 

This year's Heritage Day is being marked under the banner, "Celebrating 20 years of democracy: Tell your story that moves South Africa forward!"

"For the last 20 years, our country has cast aside centuries of discrimination and oppression to forge a new society," Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa said before a packed stadium in Klerksdorp in the North-West Province.

"Our democracy was not easily achieved, but was won only though the sacrifices of thousands of people," he asserted.

Ramaphosa said South Africa was on the path to realizing the dream of a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous society.  

"We are building a nation of citizens who care for each other," the deputy president added.

Most of those who attended the day's festivities, which were broadcast on national television, were dressed in traditional attire.

Several ethnic groups performed traditional dances, reminding South Africans of their rich cultural heritage.

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