Celebrating the ǂKhomani Tribe: Twee Rivieren Interpretative Centre and Narrative Development Project

1 min read
k g

The Kalahari is home to a diverse range of cultural and natural wonders, including the world’s oldest tribe, the ǂKhomani people. To pay homage to their unique culture, Patricia de Lille, South African Minister of Tourism, launched the Twee Rivieren (ǂKhomani) Interpretative Centre and Narrative Development Project. The R3.5 million initiative immerses visitors in the captivating world of the ǂKhomani, preserving their heritage for future generations.

A Tribute to the ǂKhomani San People

Located within the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, the Twee Rivieren Interpretative Centre serves as a tribute to the ǂKhomani San people. The exhibition installation blends modern design with ancient ǂKhomani wisdom, showcasing the cultural and natural heritage of the park, including the narratives and storylines of the local ǂKhomani communities.

The Importance of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the ǂKhomani people and abundant wildlife. The park spans across borders with Botswana and Namibia, offering diverse biomes for visitors to explore.

Benefits for the Local Community

Minister De Lille emphasized that the project aims to improve the overall visitor experience, facilitate educational trips for school groups, and provide entrepreneurial opportunities for the local communities. The initiative involved converting an existing building into the Interpretative Centre, which was completed in March 2023. A Market Tree was also established, where San crafters can sell their products to visitors.

The Department of Tourism funded the R3.5 million project, with SANParks appointed as the Implementing Agency. The venture is located in a rural area within Northern Cape Province, identified by the government for socio-economic development. The Department has supported multiple projects within the region, all focused on benefiting the San communities.

Training for Local Tourist Guides

The Department of Tourism also implemented tourist guide training for ten beneficiaries from the Khomani and Mier communities. These guides will facilitate Nature and Culture Site tours in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and surrounding areas, allowing the communities to benefit directly from the Interpretative Centre and tourism activities in the region.

Preserving the Legacy of the ǂKhomani Tribe

The Twee Rivieren Interpretative Centre is a testament to the enduring legacy of the ancient ǂKhomani tribe, preserving their wisdom, customs, and folklore for future generations. Visitors to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park are encouraged to explore the center and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the Kalahari.

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

A Comprehensive Update on Western Cape’s Water Situation

Next Story

Developing and Empowering South Africa’s Youth: The National Human Development Report 2022

Latest from Blog

Cape Town’s Transformative Toy Libraries: Revolutionizing Early Childhood Development

Cape Town’s toy libraries are changing how young children learn by creating fun and exciting places to play and grow. With 24 vibrant libraries, kids can explore new stories and play with educational toys that help them develop important skills. Educators also benefit, gaining access to helpful resources that enhance teaching methods. This initiative not only supports children’s growth but also encourages a love for learning that can last a lifetime. As these libraries thrive, they inspire communities everywhere to embrace the joy of learning through play.

Innovative Urban Water Management: Embracing Wastewater Package Plants

Wastewater package plants are small, smart facilities that help cities manage dirty water in a cleaner way. They are easy to install and can be placed where big treatment plants can’t go, making them super useful for crowded urban areas. Recently, a workshop brought together many people to learn how to set up and run these plants, highlighting their importance for public health and the environment. By using these innovative systems, cities can boost their economies while making sure they take care of our precious water resources.

Confronting Illegal Mining in South Africa: A Complex Battle

South Africa is fighting against illegal mining with a strong team of police, soldiers, and private security. They’ve recently targeted a large group of about 6,500 illegal miners in Ekurhuleni, where hidden tunnels and makeshift homes showed the extent of this underground world. While these operations can push miners away temporarily, true solutions need to address the economic struggles that drive people to these risky jobs. The goal is to create lasting change that not only protects the environment but also offers communities new opportunities for a better life.

Balancing Tradition and Safety: Cape Town’s Fireworks Policy

Cape Town is getting ready for exciting celebrations like Diwali and Guy Fawkes Night, but there are important rules about fireworks! To keep everyone safe, people must get permission from the police and have their event checked by the Fire and Rescue Service. While many love the colorful displays, some worry about noise and the danger to pets and wildlife. As the city balances fun traditions with safety, it’s clear that thoughtful celebrations can light up the sky without causing chaos below.