By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged South Africans to celebrate the diversity of cultures in the country and to be more hospitable towards foreigners.
Ramaphosa referred to the spirit of Ubuntu to while encouraging South Africans to show compassion to people, “especially those less fortunate, and also to those from foreign lands who have sought refuge here”.
He said 24 September was a day for South Africans to appreciate the rich, diverse and common cultural heritage of the country.
“It is an opportunity for us to wear the attire that is unique to our respective cultures, to invite friends and family over for a home-cooked traditional meal, to play traditional music, and to pay tribute to those who came before us. Just as we celebrate where we have come from, we know that culture continues to evolve, adapt and change.”
Ramaphosa’s address preached a message of ubuntu in the wake of xenophobic attacks and a narrative around foreign nationals being pushed by some political and community leaders.
“Our heritage is also the best version of ourselves that we seek to become. I am referring here to ubuntu, which speaks to our innate spirit of generosity and human solidarity,” he said.
Ramaphosa’s comments come as organisations such as the Patriotic Alliance and Operation Dudula have been outspoken in recent months about their belief that illegal immigrants are the cause of many of South Africa’s problems.
He added that government is working to protect South Africa’s artists, which will in turn preserve the country’s heritage.
“Through their songs, dance, paintings, storytelling, sculptures and other form of art, artists carry on their shoulders the heavy responsibility to transmit our heritage from one generation to another, “he said.
“Artists must therefore be paid their dues.”
Ramaposa said new Copyright Amendment Bill passed by National Assembly at the beginning of September will help protect artists, including with the collection and distribution of royalties.
“We are determined to use the law where necessary to preserve our cultural heritage.”