Media Statement: Minister Marais to launch National Archives Awareness Week | Western Cape Government

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Media Statement: Minister Marais to launch National Archives Awareness Week

12 July 2019

As we celebrate 25 years of democracy this year, the Archives service will be reflecting on this period, through programmes and activities during the National Annual Archives Awareness Week from 15 to 19 July 2019.

The theme for this year is “Archival Footprint: the relevance of archives 25 years into democracy”. The role of our archives in the preservation of and keeping of history, enables society to reflect on where it has been, is now and is going in the future.

The aim of the Annual Archives Awareness Week is to popularise the profession to engage communities around the importance of archives in the preservation of societal memory and the provision of access thereto. The week promotes the importance of good record keeping practices and allows members of the public access to archival buildings in order to witness and experience archival functions and services.

Minister Anroux Marais said, “This week is an open opportunity for every member of the public, particularly the youth to explore the history of South Africa and to gain knowledge on researching their own personal histories. We hope all those participating in the programmes of the week will not only be inspired to trace their own histories but will be inspired to motivate others to do so as well because it is pivotal to know where we come from so to be better informed as to where we are heading as a socially inclusive and connected nation of South Africans”.

The Provincial Archives and Records Service will continue to expand the Records Management programme which not only collects, manages and preserves records that form part of our archival heritage but also assists governmental bodies, including municipalities, to manage records to improve accountability and good governance across the province.

Kindly find online official Archive Week poster for more detailed information.

Media Enquiries: 
Stacy McLean
Spokesperson for the Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais
083 504 1171