Heritage Cases

The Voortrekker Monument is a declared Grade I National Heritage Site in terms of section 27 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999. It is likely the most visited cultural heritage tourist attraction in South Africa outside Cape Town. The Voortrekker Monument is, however, not only a tourist attraction, but also comprises an important part of our South African history, aesthetic and living heritage and Afrikaner cultural identity. The role played by the Management of the Voortrekker Monument contributes significantly to a general, public awareness of the value of heritage within society. Both the public and various organisations hold the Voortrekker Monument Management in high regard as leaders in heritage resources management and conservation. It is therefore important that Management follow the correct procedures regarding the responsible and sustainable use of this heritage site to promote the example that has been set. The wagon laager wall is one aspect of the greater Voortrekker Monument precinct. This structure comprises 64 wagons that surrounds the Monument proper as a laager. The Heritage Foundation and Voortrekker Monument engaged with the Built Environment Unit of the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) on 17 May 2019 in this regard. Following this meeting, the Built Environment unit requested that the Heritage Foundation submit this report and other relevant documentation in support of an Emergency Repair Order application.