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The Mace is a symbol of authority of the Speaker of the National Assembly. When the Sergeant-at-arms carries the Mace into the debating chamber, and places it before the Speaker of Parliament, it means that the National Assembly is formally in session and that its proceedings are official.The Mace was designed to reflect the history, traditions,and diverse cultures and languages of South Africa. The design also celebrates the country’s natural beauty, its plant and animal life and it rich mineral resources. •The shape of the mace recalls the knobkerrie, an African symbol of defence as well as authority and leadership. •Gold symbolises not only our country’s natural wealth, but also the indigenous knowledge of Africa and the ancient African gold mining traditions of Mapungubwe. |
