Klerksdorp- The people of Matlosana with a large number of Rastafarian community from across the breath of the province, had a belated Africa Day celebration this past weekend at Goudkoppie Heritage Site, organized by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

The purpose of the day was to reflect on the achievements of the continent as well as celebrate Africa’s heritage.

With the theme “Celebrating our indigenous practices & collaborations”, the day focused on the indigenous people of South Africa and the Rastafarian community.

“An eye opening event filled with history of the Rastafarian community and their lifestyles shown through exhibitions left with an insight as to who this community live for. North West museums were also showcasing artifacts of different cultural groups found in the province” departmental spokesperson shirley Montsho said.

City of Matlosana’s executive Mayor, Cllr. M. K. Khauoe attended the event and gave a keynote address to the community on behalf of MEC Tebogo Modise (DSAC).

Cllr Khauoe emphasized the importance of celebrating Africa day as a way of reminding Africans of where they come from, who they are and what the future will look like should they renegade their culture.

“Over the years, Africa has been treated with disdain by colonial powers. Her cultures, customs and religions have been frowned upon. The way of life of the African man and woman has been labeled as backward,” said Cllr. Khauoe.

He continued “the intelligence of the African person has been treated with the least of respect. It is days such as this one that give us power to turn things around and prove people wrong”.

Most speakers of the day preached the importance of tolerance amongst different cultural backgrounds and the importance and respect for others different from you.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture celebrates days such as these, in the spirit of preserving heritage for the benefit of future generations.

“Political and economic freedom go hand in hand as we seek to create jobs and pushing the frontiers of poverty through arts and culture”, said MEC Modise.

The day was not short of entertainment when different groups from across the province shook things up with their talent of note. Artists such as Chomza kwasa group, Tearless, Nyabhingi and Bobo-shanti were amongst talents that showcased their skills.-TDN
Follow us on Twitter@Taung_DailyNews or @IceT_