South Africa marks Heritage Day with call to strengthen national unity

South Africa marked National Heritage Day on Thursday, with President Cyril Ramaphosa urging citizens to protect the country's cultural heritage and work to strengthen national unity.

Speaking at Bongolethu Sports Stadium in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, Ramaphosa said South Africa's diverse cultures, languages and history should help bring people together and support efforts to build a more equal society.

He stressed the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and traditions for future generations, including the work of traditional practitioners, storytellers, musicians, healers and craftspeople.

Ramaphosa also condemned gender-based violence, saying the abuse and killing of women had no place in South African society. His remarks followed the recent discovery of the bodies of nine women in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng Province.

The president is expected to address the nation in the coming days on government measures to tackle gender-based violence and the investigation into the killings.

He also called for collective action to address unemployment, corruption, and alcohol and drug abuse, saying these challenges continue to affect communities across the country.