HANKEY – The long-delayed Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance in Hankey has reached a significant milestone, with the project officially handed over to an appointed contractor for completion after years of delays.

The development follows the appointment of a contractor by Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson and marks a renewed effort to complete the centre, which is intended to honour the legacy of Sarah Baartman and recognise the heritage of the Khoi and San people.

According to a previous Kouga Municipality statement, construction of the Centre of Remembrance, originally launched in 2014, has experienced numerous interruptions, with complications involving construction firms resulting in a complete halt.

According to Dr Vicky Knoetze, Member of Parliament and Democratic Alliance Kouga Constituency Leader, before Macpherson took office, the people of Kouga endured more than a decade of empty promises and delays.

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Restoring dignity

She said the project stood as a symbol of government neglect, with almost R250 million misspent and no completed centre to show for it.

Knoetze said the DA consistently fought for transparency and accountability by conducting repeated oversight inspections, applying public pressure and posing questions in the Eastern Cape Legislature and Parliament.

“This event marked an important milestone, with the project officially handed over to the appointed contractor to complete this long-overdue development,” said Knoetze.

“The progress is the direct result of sustained DA pressure and the decisive intervention by Minister Macpherson.”

Knoetze said the Centre is a critical step in honouring Sarah Baartman and restoring the dignity of the first people of this land, the Khoi and San.

“For the people of Hankey, the Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance is more than just a project. It symbolises hope and the rebuilding of trust in this community. It honours the memory and legacy of Sarah Baartman and ensures the restoration of heritage,” said Knoetze.

Heritage project

She said the project will breathe new life into Hankey and the surrounding towns as the gateway to the Gamtoos Valley and the western side of the Baviaans.

“This is the last chance to save this very special project, and we have full confidence in Minister Macpherson to ensure its completion,” said Knoetze.

Kouga Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman said in a Facebook post that, after more than a decade of delays and failed implementation, Macpherson identified the project as a priority and personally ensured that it was placed back on track.

“The completion of the Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance will restore dignity to the legacy of Sarah Baartman while creating jobs, stimulating economic activity and boosting tourism in the Hankey region,” said Bornman.

He thanked Macpherson, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the Independent Development Trust and everyone who worked tirelessly to make the event possible.

“We look forward to seeing this important heritage project completed for the benefit of future generations,” said Bornman.