Question NW2627 to the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
13 December 2021 - NW2627
Madokwe, Ms P to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
Whether, in light of the eviction of traditional healers from the Motouleng Caves in 2020, where farm owners and private land owners blocked black persons from accessing caves and other historically spiritual places on the basis that the caves were on private property, his department is considering to declare such areas as heritage sites that can be accessed by our people; if not, why not; if so, what are the details of the progress made in that regard?
Reply:
The honorable member should note that the site is privately owned, although the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) and the Free State Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (FSPHRA) can declare the sites at provincial or national level, the owner reserves the right to admission.
It is our considered view that a negotiated Management Conservation Management Plan (CMP) can aid an amicable agreement. The site is nominated and served at the Free State Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (FSPHRA) grading and declaration committee.
- The Committee considered giving this site a Grade II status due to its importance to people in the Free State and recommend that an application be submitted to South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) for Grade I due to the site’s national significance.
- The FSPHRA is will meet with Setsoto Municipality to discuss and to map a way forward regarding the protection of the site.