The success of the Soccer World Cup and its positive influence on unity in South Africa has yet again illustrated the joys of living in a country in party mode; when citizens put their differences aside and celebrate together. ]
This was not the first time that we have witnessed scenes such as these in the new South Africa. The 1994 elections, the 1995 Rugby World Cup, the 1996 African Cup of Nations, the 2004 announcement of South Africa as the Soccer World Cup hosts in 2010, the 2007 Rugby World Cup, the 2010 Super 14 semi-final and final being played in Soweto are all past examples of this phenomena.
But these are once off events. Many would also say that they are few and far in-between. How do we bottle the positive feeling? We need to have an annuity of nation building, instead of one-off events.
The stated mission is to position
National Heritage Day, 24 September, as South Africa’s annual day of celebration with 'South Africans gathering around fires' being the central theme of the celebration. National Heritage Day is a public holiday in South Africa. Our government set this day aside for all South Africans to celebrate our rich heritage.
Across race, language, region and religion, we all share one common heritage. It is called many things:
Chisa Nyama, Braai and Ukosa to name few. Although the ingredients may differ, the one thing that never changes is that when we have something to celebrate we light fires, and prepare great feasts on them. Braai4Heritage wants to encourage all South Africans to at some point during 24 September each year, gather around a fire and
braai for heritage.
The initiative is likened to annual celebrations cherished by other leading nations of the world; Thanksgiving for Americans, St Patrick’s Day for the Irish, Bastille Day for the French and Australia Day for Australians. Clearly, this is a noble cause, which will not only enhance the meaning of National Heritage Day, but also contribute to strengthening South Africa as a nation. The initiative is also called ‘National Braai Day’ in the media. Call it what you want, but make sure that you join 50 million other South Africans.
Light a fire and braai on 24 September.
More on braais and the fine art of braaing
