For some, Heritage Day – observed on Tuesday, 24 September – will be a day to join in official celebrations; or to join family, friends or colleagues for a braai; or, in case of having to work, be motivated by the thought of double pay for working on a public holiday.
For others, it will be a random public holiday in a work week – a speed bump in a busy street.
According to Pharos, heritage has to do with language, culture, buildings, and the environment that has been left to us by people from past centuries.
Considering this meaning of heritage, one wonders what heritage we are building or preserving for future generations.
Focusing on environment, one feels down in the dumps. On a daily basis there are reports on the spilling of sewage in towns, cities, fields, rivers and more.
In the Magareng Municipality, to name just one, children of some areas can not play outside due to a river of sewage flowing through their yards. They have to walk to school crossing sewage and jumping over heaps of rubbish.
According to the 2023 Green Drop Watch Report, the majority of wastewater treatment systems in the Northern Cape is in a critical state. Also, the 2024 Environmental Performance Index by Yale University, which provides a data-driven summary of sustainability worldwide, indicates that South Africa is not on the top ten list in Africa.
Countries that rank highly are those that have prioritised environmental health and sustainability. The index combines 58 indicators in 11 categories, including waste management.
Gabon, number one on the list, stands out for its robust environmental policies and conservation efforts. Zimbabwe is second, despite economic challenges. Botswana is third for, amongst others, making significant strides in preserving its natural heritage.
Maybe it is time to reconsider the full meaning of heritage.
