Traditional songs, dances and hymns were the order of the day when Harare residents in Khayelitsha held a Heritage Day event on Monday September 24.
People gathered at Masibambane hall to honour the day and looked snappy in their traditional Xhosa attire.
The core message delivered on the day was to urge young people to embrace their culture and not forget their roots. But most importantly, they were encouraged to learn other African cultures so that they could expand their knowledge.
Ward 98 councillor Anele Gabuza said it was important that this event was held as it reminds people of who they are. He said culture plays a vital role in defining people and it should be celebrated. He called on parents and grandparents to share their rich knowledge about culture with the young generation so that they understand their history.
He believes that culture plays a vital role in sharpening and disciplining children into becoming responsible and respectful adults. He said in the olden days parents and grandparents used folklore to teach young children about life.
He said culture exercises a great influence on the development of personality. He believes that cultures prepares people for life and sets rules and expectation.
Mr Gabuza made an impassioned plea to the parents to teach children their clan names and be able to recite them. He said culture defines who you are and it also plays a crucial role in keeping people grounded. Mr Gabuza pleaded with the children not only to know their own culture, but they should take time to learn other African cultures and that could eliminate tribalism among Africans. He said Heritage Day events provide a platform for children to ask critical questions about their own culture and other cultures. He applauded community-based groups that teach children the role of culture in these modern days and he also appealed to schools to include a subject that solely teaches children about their roots. “Without culture we won’t exists. Culture defines us. We are what we are because of our culture. We should be extremely proud of our culture. We need to preserve it. We should not just celebrate our heritage on this day but we should always be proud of our culture,” he said.
Chairperson of Harare Community Policing Forum, Ronnie Busakwe, said this day provides the community with an opportunity to come together and talk about their heritage. He said as parents they should instil cultural values in children so that they are able to understand their culture. He said days like these are important as they remind the community about their history and how things were done culturally. He praised community-based group for teaching children traditional dances and other customs, saying these are some of the ways of preserving culture. “Culture defines us. Culture brings us together. Culture creates a spirit of love,” he said.
Nolukholo Yanta said as young people it was crucial that they learn about their culture and embrace it with dignity and love. She said there were many negative things said about young people who join community dance groups and that should not be allowed.