NATIONAL HERITAGE DAY
On 24 September we recognise and celebrate the cultural wealth, diversity and heritage of our nation. In an address marking Heritage Day in 1996, the late President Nelson Mandela stated:
“When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation.”
This assertion is further captured in South Africa’s coat of arms motto:”ǃke e: ǀxarra ǁke”. The motto is written in the Khoisan language of the ǀXam people and translates literally to diverse people unite.”
The South African Mint has over the years, as a manufacturer of circulation, collectable and bullion coins, been a source of cultural and national heritage, telling the stories of South Africa through uniquely designed coins. The Mint continues to capture the country’s heritage as well as heroes and historical moments through the coins we produce from the historic day of 6 July 1892, when the first coins were minted from the Mint Press, affectionately known as “Oom Paul”.
In spite of the challenging times we find ourselves in; let us remember that there is strength in unity; let us embrace and celebrate our diversity in culture; religion and languages. Let us continue to value humanity and live out the spirit of Ubuntu, which simply means I AM. BECAUSE YOU ARE.
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived; it is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”
Happy Heritage Day from us at the South African Mint!
Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay positive. Stay Strong.
Honey Mamabolo
Managing Director
South African Mint Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd
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