It is the intention of Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) to implement programmes that will unite the people of the district in their diversity while striving to build socially cohesive communities through inclusive collaborative programmes.
These sentiments were shared by CHDM’s integrated planning and economic development portfolio head, Sibongile Mbotshane, during a hybrid media briefing on Wednesday, September 14, outlining programmes of the Heritage Month celebrations.
Mbotshane said the celebrations will kick off with a celebration at the Qamata Great Place on September 15. This was preceded by a Grade 12s debate on the late John Knox Bokwe.
“Traditional horse racing will follow on September 17 in Intsika Yethu Local Municipality where local jockeys will face off with other districts. This is a build-up event towards the Berlin Horse Racing event which usually takes place annually in Berlin in November. It aims to expose local jockeys to activities that will hone their skill, paving way for them to participate in bigger events,” he said.
On the same day as the horse racing, a district cultural festival – focusing on the Maskandi Music, will be held in Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality. The event, Mbotshane said, is meant to expose cultural within the district. The Ngqoko Annual Cultural Festival, which has been endorsed by the local traditional authority, will take place in Emalahleni Local Municipality, Ngqoko village on September 21.
“The provincial government saw it fitting to align its heritage event to be hosted in Ngcobo. Activities include a memorial lecture, launching of the new name of the municipality and unveiling of the statues of Dr A B Xuma and Walter Sisulu,” Mbotshane said, adding the events will be on September 24.
The celebrations will conclude with the Chris Hani Jazz Festival on September 25.
The district has partnered with the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
“The purpose of the event is to contribute towards development and preservation of jazz talent in the district and in the province. A line-up of performers will be shared in due course,” he said.
The event, which could not be held in the past two years due to Covid-19, has previously attracted multi award-winning artists such a Zahara, Zonke Dikana and Ringo.
