Local News

Limpopo unveils refurbished LTT museum

Schoemansdal Museum reopens after R40m renovation, showcasing Limpopo's rich cultural heritage and history in a bid to boost tourism.

LIMPOPO – The MEC of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Jerry Maseko, officially opened the newly refurbished Schoemansdal Museum on September 16, located outside Louis Trichardt.

The renovation, costing R40m, restored the museum after it was destroyed by a fire in 2008. Maseko believes the upgraded museum will become a key tourism attraction for both local and international visitors, boosting Limpopo’s economy.

During the opening, Maseko stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage and urged the local community to support the museum.

“Tourism is one of the economic backbones of our province, and this museum showcases the pioneers who settled in Schoemansdal,” he said.

He added that the revamped museum, which started construction in 2022, will educate future generations about the area’s rich history, including the diverse cultures of the Vhavenda, VaTsonga, Bapedi, and Afrikaner communities.

The museum’s new exhibition hall features a detailed account of the Zoutpansberg region’s history, portraying the cultural and natural heritage of the various ethnic groups in the area.

Maseko explained that the museum will play a key role in promoting social cohesion by highlighting the collective history and resilience of the people who have lived in the region.

Senior traditional leader, Thovhele Vele Kutama, said he hopes the museum will bring development and job opportunities to the local communities of Sinthumule and Kutama, where unemployment remains a challenge.

He called on the government to improve the infrastructure surrounding the museum, particularly the dusty roads leading to the site.

The museum’s reopening coincided with Heritage Month celebrations under the theme ‘Celebrating the Lives of Our Heroes and Heroines Who Laid Down Their Lives for Our Freedom’.

Maseko concluded by saying, “This museum stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and the shared history of all those who have called this land home.”

For more breaking news follow us on Facebook Twitter Instagram or join our WhatsApp group

Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here.

Tanaiya Lees

"Tanaiya Lees is the Digital Coordinator for the Polokwane Review-Observer. She holds a Diploma in Journalism and is passionate about sharing authentic stories and making a positive impact through those stories. Although her journey in journalism was unexpected, she found herself drawn to it from the very beginning. Despite an initial career in Digital Marketing and Communications, she has recently reignited her passion for journalism and is excited to be back in the field she loves. With an interest in storytelling and a strong commitment to accuracy, her goal is to produce high-quality content that truly connects with readers. She aims to amplify the voices of those who need it most, shine a light on important issues, and inspire meaningful conversations. Tanaiya firmly believes in the power of journalism to effect change and is dedicated to being a part of that.

Related Articles

Check Also
Close
Back to top button