Address by MEC Mackenzie at the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee

Inscription of the Emergence Of Modern Human Behaviour: 
The Pleistocene Occupation Sites Of South Africa

New Delhi, India

Friday, 26 July 2024

Members of the World Heritage Committee, Excellencies representing various state parties, distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, I greet you all on behalf of the People of South Africa.

Since it is our first time taking the floor, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate India on hosting a well-organised conference and for your exceptional hospitality.

It is with immense pride and profound gratitude that I stand before you today to accept the prestigious recognition of The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa as a World Heritage Site on behalf of the people of South Africa and the World. This designation includes the Diepkloof Rock Shelter ( Elands Bay), Pinnacle Point Site Complex (Mossel Bay) in the Western Cape, and Sibhudu Cave in KwaZulu-Natal connecting through our eastern sea board of the Indian Ocean.

This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in our collective journey to preserve and celebrate the origins of modern human behaviour and our shared cultural heritage. The inscription of the modern human behaviour sites compliments the existing world heritage recognition of the South Africa’s Fossil Hominid Sites and underscores our country’s pivotal role in narrating the story of human origins. This inscription adds an 11th site to South Africa’s world heritage sites. 

As we celebrate this prestigious recognition, we also acknowledge the critical role of heritage in fostering national unity and identity. These sites are not only archaeological treasures but also symbols of our resilience, creativity, and capacity for innovation.

They remind us of the importance of preserving our cultural and natural heritage for future generations.

In the words of the esteemed Late  South African paleontologist, Professor Phillip Tobias, who was once asked: “What has Africa given the world?” His reply was, “There is a simple answer. Africa gave the world humanity, and that is no small thing.”

At this juncture, I would like to hand over to Dr Thobile Sifunda, the Head of Department for Sport, Arts and Culture in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, where Sibhudu Cave is located.

Thank you.