South African Heritage Resources Agency

SAHRA is a statutory organization established under the National Heritage Resources Act, No 25 of 1999, as the national administrative body responsible for the protection of South Africa’s cultural heritage.

The Act follows the principle that heritage resources should be managed by the levels of government closest to the community. These local and provincial authorities will manage heritage resources as part of their planning process.

In order to develop the skills and capacities of communities, heritage resource agencies will promote education and training to encourage public involvement in the identification of heritage resources, with the recording of living heritage associated with oral history. Oral history recording, is a crucial element used for documenting heritage events of our past.

We present this information about SAHRA in order to create an awareness among the people of our country of their right to conserve what they consider to be valuable heritage resources, the mechanisms for conservation, and to recognize the exciting new possibilities that the Act creates for them.

South Africa is a country with a rich and diverse heritage. From its ancient rock art to its colonial forts, from its apartheid-era townships to its modern cities, South Africa's heritage is a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people.

SAHRA effectively bridges the diverse communities of South Africa. By recognizing the importance of historical sites, languages, rituals, and art forms, SAHRA not only preserves the past but also actively encourages dialogue and understanding among different groups. This organization's commitment to showcasing the shared history and values of the nation contributes significantly to the process of national reconciliation and cohesion, helping to weave the threads of South Africa's heritage into a tapestry that unites its people.

The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) is dedicated to preserving, conserving, and promoting South Africa's heritage for future generations. SAHRA's work is essential to ensuring that this heritage is not lost but is instead shared with the world.

SAHRA's Mission Statement:
SAHRA's mission is to safeguard the cultural treasures and historical legacies that define South Africa. We are not just an enforcer of heritage legislation; we are knowledge generators, bridging the gap between history and the present.

We do this by:
• Identifying, documenting, and assessing South Africa's heritage resources
• Protecting and conserving heritage resources
• Promoting public awareness of South Africa's heritage
• Facilitating research and education on South Africa's heritage

South Africa's Unique Heritage:
Our heritage serves as a powerful force for equality, social justice, and global connection.