MINISTER MACPHERSON HANDS OVER SARAH BAARTMAN CENTRE OF REMEMBRANCE SITE TO NEW CONTRACTOR

Article and Picture Caroline Mokotedi

04 July 2026

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, has officially handed over the Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance construction site to a newly appointed contractor in Hankey, Eastern Cape, marking a major milestone towards completing the long-delayed heritage project.

The ceremonial handover, held on Saturday, 4 July 2026, was attended by key stakeholders, including Independent Development Trust Deputy Chairperson, Raymond Nkado, Acting IDT CEO Mr Sfiso Nsibande, Kouga Municipal Council Speaker Cllr Lorraine Maree, Ward 9 Councillor Cllr Cynthia August, and Khoi leader Chief Edmund Stuurman.

Speaking at the event, Minister Macpherson said the unfinished Centre had become a source of shame, as it had failed to honour the painful history and enduring legacy of Sarah Baartman with the dignity and respect she deserves.

The Minister emphasised that the appointment of the new contractor signals a decisive shift from years of delay to delivery, reaffirming government’s commitment to preserving South Africa’s heritage and ensuring that the Centre is completed. He further highlighted the critical role of the Independent Development Trust (IDT) in ensuring the project is properly managed, with risks identified early, the contractor closely monitored, and the Department kept fully informed at every stage of implementation.

Addressing the gathering, Independent Development Trust Deputy Chairperson Prof Nkado said that in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Kouga Local Municipality, contractors and other stakeholders, the IDT remains committed to ensuring that the project not only preserves the country’s history but also delivers tangible and lasting socio- economic benefits, including job creation, skills development, and opportunities for local businesses.

He added that the ceremony served as a public demonstration of a shared vision to honour Sarah Baartman’s legacy, empower local communities, and build a centre that will stand as a beacon of remembrance, social justice, and hope

Minister Macpherson expressed confidence that the project will be finalised by the end of 2027, when it will be formally handed over to the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.