Celebrating International Museum Day

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, joins the global community in celebrating International Museum Day today, on 18 May 2025. This year's theme, “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” underscores the vital role museums play in fostering learning, cultural preservation, and community engagement. 

“Museums are not just repositories of artifacts; they are dynamic spaces that educate, inspire, and connect us to our shared heritage,” said Minister Mackenzie. “In the Western Cape, we are proud of our diverse range of museums that reflect our rich cultural tapestry and history.”

Highlighting recent initiatives, Minister Mackenzie referenced the launch of South Africa's first Television Museum in Cape Town, a collaborative effort with Hisense SA and the SA Sendinggestig Museum. “This innovative space not only chronicles the evolution of television but also serves as an educational hub for technology and design,” he noted. 

Further emphasising the province's commitment to cultural preservation, Minister Mackenzie mentioned the recent recognition of the "Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour" site, which includes the Diepkloof Rock Shelter, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. “This acknowledgment reinforces our responsibility to protect and promote our unique heritage sites,” he stated. 

In line with the day's theme, the Minister also highlighted the ALMAL (Arts, Libraries, Museums, Archives, Languages) Book Club initiative, aimed at encouraging reading and cultural appreciation across communities. 

“As we commemorate International Museum Day, I encourage all residents and visitors to explore our museums, engage with our history, and participate in the educational opportunities they offer,” Minister Mackenzie concluded.

Media Enquiries
Naudé van der Merwe
Spokesperson to Minister Ricardo Mackenzie
Cell: 083 507 8703