\u201cOn September 24, thousands of South Africans dress up in their traditional clothing and cook traditional meals as part of the celebrations,\u201d said the communications officer at the Bertha Gxowa Hospital, Thabile Mnguni.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn a country with 11 official languages, Heritage Day is always an event to which we all look forward, especially at the hospital, where there are diverse and unique cultures represented.<\/p>
\u201cWe celebrated our heritage at the hospital on September 23.\u201d<\/p>\n
From the beautiful traditional clothing to the wonderful foods, the day is always filled with festivities.<\/p>
\u201cThis year, the staff at the hospital dressed to the nines, each representing their chosen cultures,\u201d explained Mnguni.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe different departments each took time out to showcase their cultures and expressed what made them unique.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Zulu nation wasted no time dancing and ululating, while the Tsonga nation humbly lay on the ground as a sign of acknowledgement and respect.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Ndebele tribe were seen showing off their colourful blankets and beaded neck pieces.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI am proud of my Ndebele heritage, my people are very respectful and loving; though we are a minority we don\u2019t forget our traditional practices,\u201d said the finance department\u2019s Queen Mabena.<\/p>\n
Mnguni added that the Swati\u2019s shared stories of their kings and how they take pride in their language.<\/p>\n
\u201cHuman resources\u2019 Zandile Majola said her Swati heritage is summed up in one sentence: \u2018Umuntfu ngu muntfu ngebantfu\u2019 which means \u2018I am because we are\u2019,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe day ended in high spirits, with many dancing to the traditional songs sung.<\/p>\n
\u201cA happy Heritage Month to all.\u201d<\/p>\n
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