The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, officially launched the Bicentenary Celebration of the Iziko South African Museum on 13 March 2025, marking 200 years of heritage preservation and transformation. The milestone event, hosted at the iconic museum in the shadow of Table Mountain, heralds a year-long calendar of commemorative activities under the ISAM 200 initiative.
Minister McKenzie has highlighted the museum’s evolution from its colonial origins in 1825 to becoming a transformed institution that reflects South Africa’s rich and diverse heritage.
“This bicentenary is not just a celebration of history, but an opportunity to reflect on the transformation of our heritage institutions,” said Minister McKenzie. “The Iziko South African Museum, once a symbol of colonial dominance, has undergone a profound shift towards inclusivity and representation of all South Africans. Today, it stands as a beacon of progress, reflecting the nation’s commitment to reclaiming and honouring indigenous knowledge and histories.”
The Minister underscored the museum’s role in reimagining historical narratives, citing its proactive steps in decolonising exhibitions and repatriating human remains in line with government’s restorative justice agenda. He commended the museum’s efforts to integrate digital technologies, ensuring national access to heritage through virtual experiences and interactive exhibitions.
“The transformation of museums is an ongoing process, and the Iziko Museums of South Africa has set a commendable precedent. The launch of the Iziko Nelson Mandela Prison House Museum later this year will further solidify its commitment to broadening historical narratives,” the Minister said.
As part of the bicentenary programme, the museum will open the ISAM 200 exhibition in June and will oversee the dignified reburial of ancestral human remains long held in its collection, ensuring their respectful restitution to affected communities. Additionally, a series of scholarly publications and public dialogues will be launched to further engage South Africans in shaping the future of museum spaces.
The Minister urged all stakeholders, cultural institutions, and the public to actively engage in the year-long celebrations.
“It is essential that we embrace the G20 with enthusiasm, as South Africa prepares to welcome the world. Our goal is to ensure that visitors fully experience the richness of our museums and heritage, while fostering meaningful partnerships with government officials from across the globe.
“The preservation and transformation of our heritage is a shared responsibility. Let us seize this opportunity to engage thoughtfully, reflect on our progress, and contribute to a heritage sector that authentically represents the diversity and resilience of our nation.”
For media enquiries:
Ms. Stacey-Lee Khojane, Spokesperson: Office of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
Email: StaceyK@dsac.gov.za
Cell: +27 77 608 7579
Ms Zimasa Velaphi, Head of Communication and Marketing: Department of Sport, Arts and Culture
Email: ZimasaV@dsac.gov.za
Cell: +27 72 172 8925
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