Cape Town Residents Invited to Participate in Renaming Historic Building

by
1 min read
p

The City of Cape Town’s Public Participation Unit has officially launched the commenting process for the proposal to rename the historic Old Granary building to ‘Desmond and Leah Tutu House.’ The Naming Committee endorsed the initiative during a meeting on 28 August 2023, and City Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis subsequently approved the commencement of the participation process. Built between 1808 and 1813, the Old Granary building, located at 11 Buitenkant Street in Zonnebloem, has served various purposes throughout its 200-year history.

Public Participation Importance

Alderman Eddie Andrews, Deputy Mayor and Chairperson of the Naming Committee, emphasizes the significance of public involvement, urging individuals to attend the launch event or submit their comments through alternative avenues. The commenting process runs from 16 to 30 September 2023, inviting residents to share their thoughts and contribute valuable input regarding the proposal.

Submitting Comments

For those unable to attend the launch, the City provides several options for residents to submit their comments, including email, the City’s official website, or by hand at all Subcouncil offices and City libraries. The deadline for comment submissions is 30 September 2023.

Honoring Archbishop Desmond Tutu and His Wife Leah Tutu

The proposal to rename the Old Granary building emerged from the City’s Economic Growth Directorate to honor and memorialize the life and work of the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his wife, Leah Tutu. Alderman James Vos, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, explains that the renaming aims to continue the legacy of Desmond and Leah Tutu, who have made remarkable contributions to Cape Town’s and South Africa’s political, socio-cultural identity and have become global icons for virtue and strength of character.

Preserving South African Legacy

In 2015, the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation co-funded the building’s refurbishment, transforming the space into a peace center, archive center, museum, and City of Cape Town office space. The renaming endeavor demonstrates the City’s commitment to recognizing and preserving the legacy of prominent South African figures like Desmond and Leah Tutu, who have significantly impacted the nation’s history and culture. By inviting citizens to participate in the process, the City ensures that the voices of residents are heard and their values respected in shaping the city’s cultural landscape.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all
e
Previous Story

This Is Cape Town Magazine: Showcasing Local Brilliance and Economic Growth

u
Next Story

Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate Exceeds MyCiTi Ridership Targets

Latest from Blog

education budget cuts

South Africa’s Educational Crossroads: Addressing Budget Cuts and Future Challenges

South Africa’s education system is facing tough times due to budget cuts, meaning fewer teachers and larger classes. By 2027, many areas will struggle financially, affecting students’ learning and future opportunities. Minister Gwarube warns this could lead to a crisis, where kids won’t get the attention they need to succeed. To turn things around, South Africa must rethink how it invests in education, seeing it as vital for the country’s future. With community help and smart use of technology, there’s hope to improve the situation for the youth.

demographic shifts socio-economic challenges

Demographic Shifts and Socio-Economic Challenges in the Western Cape

The Western Cape is changing rapidly, with many young people and a growing number of older residents living there. However, the area faces big challenges like high unemployment, especially among the youth, and a shortage of healthcare workers. Housing demand is skyrocketing as more people move in, leading to a housing crisis. While the region has beautiful landscapes and a rich culture, it also highlights the stark differences between wealthy neighborhoods and less fortunate communities, making it essential for leaders to find ways to improve everyone’s lives.

home affairs south africa

Optimized Home Affairs Hours Support South African Students for 2024 Exams

Home Affairs in South Africa is now open on Saturdays from 8 AM to 1 PM until October 12, 2024, to help students get their IDs for the important National Senior Certificate exams starting on October 21. This means students can get the documents they need without rushing at the last minute. The government is also using technology to make ID applications easier and faster, helping to clear a backlog of requests. This new schedule shows a strong commitment to supporting students and modernizing public services for everyone.

siya kolisi cape road

Renaming Cape Road: A Tribute to Siya Kolisi

Cape Road in Gqeberha is set to be renamed Siya Kolisi Road to celebrate the inspiring legacy of the Springbok captain. Kolisi, the first black captain of the Springboks, symbolizes unity, resilience, and hope for many South Africans. This change is more than just a new name; it shows the community’s pride in local heroes and highlights the values of inclusivity and togetherness that Kolisi represents. The proposal sparks a deeper conversation about the stories we honor in our public spaces, making it a meaningful tribute to a remarkable leader.