Social Transformation Cluster
15 November 2024
Comrade Paulinah Makgatho
“Aligning the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals with the Promotion of Indigenous Rights in South Africa.”
The alignment of the 2023 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with the promotion of Indigenous rights in South Africa presents a complex challenge that encompasses the nation’s historical context, current socio-economic circumstances, and future aspirations. The African National Congress proceeds that this alignment creates an opportunity to address enduring inequalities while furthering the country’s commitment to sustainable development. Indigenous peoples in South Africa, notably the Khoi and San, have experienced historical marginalisation and continue to advocate for recognition, land rights, and the preservation of their cultural heritage.
As South Africa endeavours to achieve the SDGs, the integration of Indigenous rights within this framework has the potential to address multiple objectives concurrently, including poverty alleviation, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. Nevertheless, this integration prompts critical questions regarding the equilibrium between national development priorities and the specific needs and rights of Indigenous communities.
Honourable Chairperson, it is important that we recognise and prioritise job creation initiatives that specifically target indigenous communities, as these groups often face unique challenges in the workforce. These initiatives should be designed to empower and uplift individuals within these communities through comprehensive vocational training programmes. Such programmes must not only provide the necessary skills to enter the workforce but also focus on relevant industries that have the potential for growth in these areas. Furthermore, a strong emphasis must be placed on small business development. Supporting the establishment and growth of small businesses is essential, as it creates employment opportunities and fosters economic independence, resilience, and sustainability within indigenous communities. It is crucial that these initiatives incorporate the perspectives and needs of indigenous peoples, ensuring they are actively involved in the decision-making processes that affect their livelihoods. In addition to creating job opportunities, it is vital to prioritise support for enterprises owned by indigenous individuals.
Encouraging entrepreneurship within these communities can lead to innovative solutions that address local challenges and tap into unique cultural resources. Providing access to funding, mentorship programs, and business development resources can significantly enhance the success of these entrepreneurs. This comprehensive approach aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 8, which seeks to promote decent work and sustainable economic growth for all. By aligning our efforts with SDG 8, the ANC clearly demonstrates its commitment to fostering inclusive economic development that ensures no one is left behind. It is essential that we guarantee indigenous communities have the opportunities, resources, and support they need to not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive economic landscape. Through our concerted efforts, we can work towards a more equitable future for all.
Honourable members, the integration of Indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage is crucial for the preservation and promotion of Indigenous cultures. Such initiatives not only enhance community awareness and appreciation but also foster a more inclusive understanding of diverse knowledge systems. A prominent example is the African Indigenous Knowledge Systems (AIKS), which are recognised as essential in higher education. By incorporating local stories, proverbs, and traditional practices into the curriculum, students can forge a deeper connection to their cultural roots. The ANC advocates for policies that safeguard Indigenous knowledge, ensuring that communities benefit from their cultural heritage while empowering them to reclaim their narratives in a post-colonial context. By embedding Indigenous perspectives within educational frameworks, South Africa can cultivate a society that values and respects its rich cultural diversity, ultimately contributing to national unity and social cohesion.
Creating community-based tourism initiatives presents a sustainable opportunity for indigenous communities to achieve economic growth while preserving their cultural heritage. The Maasai community in Kenya has effectively embraced cultural tourism by offering guided tours, traditional dance performances, and homestay experiences.
This not only generates income but also educates visitors about their customs and traditions. In a similar vein, we highlight the significance of empowering local communities through tourism, as seen in our support for the development of township tourism in South Africa. This approach not only creates employment opportunities but also shifts the traditional export of cultural artifacts into a more interactive and respectful exchange.
The land restitution process for Indigenous communities in South Africa is a critical aspect of addressing historical injustices and promoting social and economic equity. Currently, the 1913 Natives Land Act serves as the cut-off date for land claims, leaving many Indigenous communities unable to reclaim ancestral lands lost during earlier colonial periods. This limitation fails to acknowledge the full extent of land dispossession experienced by pastoral Indigenous communities, particularly those in the southwestern, southern, and northwestern parts of the Cape Colony, who were among the first to lose their customary land rights.
The ANC has recognised the importance of land reform as a moral, social, and economic imperative. While we have supported efforts to accelerate land reform within the framework of the Constitution, we are still addressing pre-1913 dispossessions. We need to look at unlocking the economic potential of land and supporting agricultural production and investment. To expedite the land restitution process for Indigenous communities, the government must consider enacting legislation under Section 25(8) of the Constitution, which would enable descendants of dispossessed pastoral Indigenous communities to claim restoration of their ancestral lands. This approach would align with the ANC’s commitment to creating conditions for more inclusive growth and addressing the legacy of apartheid and colonialism.
Integrating traditional healing practices into national healthcare systems offers a crucial opportunity for culturally appropriate healthcare. In many Asian countries, traditional medicine is embedded in society, coexisting with Western medicine, often supported by government initiatives that provide education and insurance for treatments like acupuncture and herbal remedies. These successful models illustrate that combining traditional practices with national health policies can improve health outcomes and foster community trust. Embracing both modern and traditional healing approaches can lead to a more equitable and effective healthcare landscape in South Africa.