Overview

The Museum achieved 100% of its pre-determined targets as set out in its Annual Performance Plans for seven consecutive years. This attests to the commitment of the Council to its strategic and oversight role and that of the Museum Management and Staff to the implementation of principles of good governance, sound financial management and a focused and determined effort to achieve its mandate, while beneficiating the community and society at large.

In modern society suffering caused by war is still a reality. South Africa experienced this suffering during the Anglo-Boer War, also referred to as the South African War of 1899-1902. The outcome was bitterness, hatred, dispossession and division for many decades to come. More than a century later South Africans can look back at this event as a shared tragedy that shaped the social, political, economic and historical landscape of South Africa as we know it today.

In order to understand the history of South Africa, a visit to the War Museum is an absolute must. The War Museum not only provides the visitor with an insight into the course and development of the Anglo-Boer War through its unique collection and exhibitions, but it also brings the visitor closer to understanding the background against which the war took place and the universal suffering it caused.

Vision

To be an institution of excellence whereby the inclusivity and suffering of all communities during the Anglo-Boer War are depicted, thus propagating the message that negotiation is preferable to war.

Mission

To collect, curate and display items relating to the Anglo-Boer War of 1899 to 1902; research, publications and education on this theme and cooperation with other organisations, nationally and internationally, in order to develop this theme.

LEGISLATIVE AND OTHER MANDATES

The War Museum of the Boer Republics is a Schedule 3A Public Entity in terms of the PFMA. This report is submitted in compliance with the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Act 108 of 1996); the Public Finance Management Act, 1999 (Act 1 of 1999, as amended by Act 29 of 1999) (PFMA); Treasury Regulations, 2005; Cultural Institutions Act, 1998 (Act 119 of 1998 as amended by the Cultural Laws Second Amendment Act, Act 69 of 2001), and other applicable acts and regulations. The White Paper on Arts, Culture and Heritage, 1996 is currently the guiding policy document for Museums. A revised White Paper on Arts and Culture, currently in a draft stage, will however have an influence on museums and heritage in general. The Museum is mandated in terms of the Cultural Institutions Act, No 119 of 1998

Key mandates/objectives:

Preserve South Africa's South African /Anglo-Boer War heritage. Research and expand historical knowledge. Educate diverse audiences. Promote inclusivity, dialogue and reconciliation. Ensure public access and institutional sustainability through partnerships, innovation and responsible stewardship.

List of upcoming activities

August – Women’s Day: Temporary Art Exhibition.

September – Heritage Day: Coloured Kruger Family’s Family Research Event.

October – Centenary celebrations event – Emily Hobhouse’s ash inurnment at the Women’s Monument 100 years.