Sibhudu Cave Declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco

Sibhudu Cave, nestled in the south of KwaDukuza was declared a World Heritage site at the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in New Delhi, India.

Members of the KZN Department of Arts and Culture at the Sibhudu Caves

Sibhudu rock shelter shows evidence of some of the earliest human innovations including the earliest bone and stone arrow heads dating back to over 60 000 years. The Sibhudu Cave has become the third World Heritage site to be declared by UNESCO World Heritage Committee in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, joining the Drakensburg Mountains and Isimangaliso Wetland Park and the twelfth in the country.

“This is another formidable achievement which underscores the origins of human behaviour. These are certainly our most defining and cherished moments that must be celebrated as they help bridge the gap between the traumatic past of our forebears and our unified future,” KwaDukuza Mayor Lindile Nhaca remarked.

According to iLembe Chamber president Cobus Oelofse, this status will add to the North Coast’s “must visit” attractions and will complement other historical sites such as the Luthuli Museum in Groutville and the KwaDukuza Museum. “World Heritage status will bring international recognition and prestige to a much broader audience, including conservationists and domestic and international tourists,” said Oelofse.

Nhaca added, “The Sibhudu Cave will re-connect the people of the world and provide avenues for interaction and social understanding of prehistoric human life - a true expression of our rich history and cultural heritage which adds more chapters to the South African heritage landscape. The cave remains a prestigious embodiment of prehistoric life and the modern world; a priceless gem which underscores the world’s most valued archaeological treasures is here at home.

This is a well-deserved recognition that sets the bar much high for the nation - and this must be celebrated under our diverse heritage as the people of KwaDukuza and the nation. We will use this site to encourage dialogue and understanding amongst different communities and seek to build new opportunities for our tourism and economic development footprint.

We thank the collaboration of various stakeholders including the KZN Department of Arts and Culture, KZN Amafa and Research Institute and Friends of Sibhudu Trust in making KwaDukuza a beacon of tourism heritage opportunities in the province,” said Nhaca.