On behalf of UNESCO, I would like to thank the South African Presidency for its leadership throughout this year’s Culture Working Group process, and for inviting UNESCO to act once more as a knowledge partner. The work of the Group underscores culture’s key contribution to sustainable development, backed by a renewed political commitment at the global level.
Programme Director, Dr Cynthia Khumalo
Honourable Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture of South Africa
Honourable Ministers from our G20 Partner Nations
His Worship, the Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Mr Cyril Xaba
Representatives of UNESCO, the African Union and other Partner Institutions
Distinguished Delegates, Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Esteemed Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a profound honor for me on belhaf of the AUC to address this 4th G20 Culture Working Group meeting here in KwaDukuza, South Africa. I would like to warmly acknowledge the presence of Honourable Minister Gayton McKenzie of South Africa, our G20 colleagues, distinguished representatives of Member States, heads of cultural institutions, and all participants who have traveled far to join us for this important dialogue and engagement.
We meet here today to put our heads together to consolidate our work at the 4th and final G20 Culture Working Group meeting under the South African presidency.
Closing remarks Digital Technologies Side event
This G20 side event interrogating digital technologies has brought to the fore the complexities of policy making in an age of Artificial Intelligence. As G20 countries it is clear that we are encountering similar challenges in staying abreast of technological developments and their implications for artists, for content creators, for workers in the cultural and creative industries.
We are here this morning to welcome you to this side event on behalf of the Culture Working Group of the G20 which in turn reports to the Sherpa Track.
It is a privilege to stand before you today, on behalf of His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa, who entrusted me with the honour of leading this celebration of Heritage Day here at Oudtshoorn. A town known for its sandstone architecture, national heritage sites, and a rich cultural landscape influenced by Khoisan people, Scottish stonemasons, and Jewish settlers.
Women’s Month in South Africa stands as one of the most powerful illustrations of how a heritage of resistance has evolved into sustained advocacy for systemic change. Our celebration is deeply rooted in what may be called embodied resistance—the physical act of 20,000 women marching to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 to eliminate laws that fundamentally restricted their autonomy, citizenship, and right to self-determination.
We gather here as our country is mourning the tragic and devastating loss of 14 South African soldiers who were part of a mission to bring peace to the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Speech for the Fashion Industry Awards of South Africa (FIASA)
27 November 2024
Good Evening.
I just want to give a huge acknowledgement to the Fashion Industry Awards of South Africa (FIASA) team first and foremost.
