‘We are all African’

Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu left his mark during a humbling ceremony at Maropeng Visitor’s Centre in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.

Archbishop Tutu together with distinguished academics, his family and friends, and members of the media all gathered to witness this historic event.

After a warm welcome from the CEO of Gauteng Tourism, Dawn Robertson, Archbishop Tutu was asked to take off his shoe and sock to leave his footprint.

“This spectacular journey of a species was all done on two feet. So not matter what complexion and physique your recent ancestors had, you ultimately are an African. What an incredible feat!” Dawn said.

The Archbishop, who was full of jokes during the ceremony, endeared the media and others with his modesty. His excitement was infectious and those who were part of this event could not help but feel that they were also part of history in the making.

After leaving his footprint in a block of concrete and also signing his name, the Archbishop jokingly reminded everyone why he was left-handed. “God made perfect people, and the rest He made right-handed.”

Other famous footprints outside the Tumulus building at the centre include those of former president Thabo Mbeki and former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.

The 1984 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former head of the South African Anglican Church described the event as a huge privilege.

“It is scientifically proven that we belong to one family. That is why ubuntu is so important. Ubuntu started here.”