Deputy President Paul Mashatile made his first public appearance today since his health scare in Tzaneen, Limpopo, over a week ago. Mashatile, who collapsed while giving a speech at the commemoration of N'wamitwa Day, took a week off his official duties after his medical team's advice. Acting as President since President Cyril Ramaphosa is in the US, Mashatile addressed the Heritage Day celebration held at the Meqheleng Stadium in Ficksburg in the Free State.

CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT ON HERITAGE

Giving his keynote address, Mashatile emphasised the importance of addressing climate changes impact on the country's heritage and culture. He said as the country looks forward to this day, some parts of the country, which include KwaZulu Natal, Eastern Cape and Free State were impacted by severe weather conditions, exacerbated by climate change. He also said that there is a need for the government to invest in technology that may improve weather predictions and save lives by providing early warnings of storms, heat waves and disasters. "In celebrating our heritage, we must be alive to the impact of climate change on not only our wellbeing but also on our culture. Extreme weather conditions such as those witnessed over the past few days affect some of our cultural and heritage sites, therefore undermining our national goals to protect and preserve our culture for generations to come," he said. He also urged the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture to explore policy considerations concerning climate change's impact on historical heritage and provide direction on preserving national identity. "As heritage month coincides with tourism month, it is crucial to showcase the significance of heritage sites as tourist destinations and celebrate cultural diversity, traditions and artefacts passed down through generations.'

STRUGGLE VETERANS REMAINS TO BE REPATRIATED 

Mashatile said the commemoration of heritage is a result of the sacrifices and efforts of those who fought against apartheid. He added that as a nation it was important to preserve the memory of those who fought for freedom, and as part of the process and in honour of the freedom fighters, the government will be honouring those who have fallen outside of our country's borders at a homecoming ceremony to take place this Friday where President Ramaphosa will officially receive the repatriated remains from Zambia and Zimbabwe. "Among the remains to be repatriated to South Africa are those of struggle stalwarts Advocate Duma Nokwe, Mama Florence Mophosho and Basil February,' he said. He added: "The exhumations and the spiritual repatriation and reburial project are just two of many important activities taking place during this month. In addition to the heroes and heroines of our national liberation struggle, we also acknowledge many other remarkable individuals across the spectrum who contributed to our freedom."