The Basotho

The Basotho:
http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Basotho.html
The ancestors of the Sotho people entered the area south of the Limpopo River in several migrations.In time, they became dispersed over the vast interior plateau between the eastern escarpment and the arid western regions and formed four subgroups ó the Tswana, North Sotho, More… http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Basotho.html

Join our facebook group on: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=133025020055448&ref=search

Want to know more about a Xhosa:

Want to know more about a Xhosa:
The Xhosa, also often called the “Red Blanket People”, are of Nguni stock, like the Zulu. The name Xhosa is a generalised term for a diversity of proud clans, the Pondo, Bomvana, Thembu and the Xhosa tribe itself. Red and the orange of ochre were the traditional colours of the Xhosa, Tembu and Bomvana (“the red ones”). The first group of early Nguni immigrants to migrate to South Africa consisted of the Xhosa, (made up of the the Gcaleka, Ngqika, Ndlambe and Dushane clans), the Thembu and Pondo. However, a second group of Nguni-speakers joined these tribes later.

http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Xhosa.html

Cultural History: Swazi http://www.africanexplore.com

Cultural History:

Swazi
http://www.africanexplore.com

South Africa’s greatest treasure is the cultural diversity of its people. The contrasting influences of the African, European and Asian heritages create a mosaic of influences throughout the arts, crafts, dance, music, food and sports of South Africa. There are many indigenous people who have lived in South Africa for thousands of years. Three quarters of South Africa’s 49 million people are Blacks whose ancestors. Many of them farmers and herders began arriving from Central Africa some 1,500 years ago.

For More Info on this Topic go to :http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/culture.html

Swazi:
Almost the whole of the country can be seen from the summit of its highest mountain, the 1 863 metre high Emlembe, (“the place of the spider”). Emlembe lies on Swaziland’s western border and is one of the peaks of the granite range known as the uKhahlamba, (“the barrier”). To the west of this range lies the basin of the South African central plateau with its numerous rivers snaking their way to the distant sea. These rivers make the tiny country of Swaziland one of the best-watered areas in Africa. According to tradition, the Swazi people were part of a mass of migrating people, the Nguni, who moved down the coastal belt of Mozambique from the north.

Political disturbances caused the mass to disintegrate and a small section of people led by their chief Ngwane wandered off on their own and stumbled into the area now known as the Kingdom of Swaziland. They named the country KaNgwane after their chief and called themselves the bantu baka Ngwane, the people of Ngwane. Most of the people settled in the southern areas of Swaziland. The settlers flourished in this beautiful land of rivers and rich alluvial soil surrounded by hills and mountains that were free of the pestilence of the tsetse fly that had caused so much illness and death in their former homeland.

When their chief died, they gave him a ceremonial burial in a forest known as emBilaneni (the hallowed place). His descendants thrived and as they increased in numbers, started spreading further north until they penetrated the fertile valley of the river they called uSuthu (dark brown). The small community of Tswana people were living on the banks of the river at the time, and was promptly dubbed the baSuthu (people of the dark brown river). This term later came to denote all related tribal groups scattered over the interior of South Africa who are collectively known today as the Sotho people.

The new settlers led by Ngwane’s grandson, Sobhuza, drove the original inhabitants away and made this area their new home. This was the time of the great leaders – Shaka in Zululand, Moshweshwe in Basotholand and Sobhuza in Swaziland. However, this was also the time of the devastating Mfecane/Difaqane Wars that would cause such turmoil and strife in southern Africa. Being a shrewd and ambitious leader, Sobhuza prudently shied away from the Zulus who were spreading death and destruction over the interior of the country. He married a Zulu woman and gave two of his daughters to Shaka as wives, thus avoiding confrontation with the Zulu king. In the meantime, he quietly set about building a nation of his own.

By the time of his death, he had subjected some 75 different clans to his rule. During the reign of his son, Mswazi, the first European traders and hunters began to filter into the country. They called the people Swazi after their chief. Mswazi’s son, Mbandzeni, was acknowledged and appointed king in 1875 by the ZAR, the Boer Transvaal Republic. In return, Mbandzeni ceded large portions of his territory to White immigrants. Partly for this reason, land became in short supply and some indigenous Swazi ended up living beyond the borders of their homeland in part of what is known today as the Province of Mpumalanga. Swaziland became an independent kingdom on 6 September 1968, after having been a British Protectorate for 66 years.

For More Info on this Topic
http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Swazi.html

Cultural History: ( http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Afrikaner.html )

Cultural History:
( http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/culture.html )
( http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Afrikaner.html )

South Africa’s greatest treasure is the cultural diversity of its people. The contrasting influences of the African, European and Asian heritages create a mosaic of influences throughout the arts, crafts, dance, music, food and sports of South Africa. There are many indigenous people who have lived in South Africa for thousands of years. Three quarters of South Africa’s 49 million people are Blacks whose ancestors. Many of them farmers and herders began arriving from Central Africa some 1,500 years ago.

Most fall into two major ethnic groups: the Nguni, which consist of Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele and Swazi peoples, and the Sotho, which includes the Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho or Basotho and Venda peoples. Blacks often speak several languages, including that of their own ethnic group and English. Many Blacks reside in cities and townships living a more modern western lifestyle, while rural dwellers often wear unique costumes and maintain their ancestors traditions and customs. In addition ceremonies play a very important part in the lives of Black South Africans.

The European influence of South Africa is primarily rooted in the Afrikaners, who were descendants of Dutch settlers. They developed their own language “Afrikaans” which is based on Dutch, but also has Malay, French, German and Black influences. About 6 million people, or roughly 15% of South Africa’s population are of European descent. The British and Germans also played an important part in the country’s development. The Coloureds, a mixed-race people, are descendants of Europeans, Blacks and former slaves from Dutch colonies in Africa and Indonesia. Indians came to South Africa initially as indentured servants and today make up the largest community of Indians outside of India. ( http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/culture.html )

Afrikaner:
( http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Afrikaner.html )
The Afrikaners are the only truly indigenous white tribe of Africa. They speak their own indigenous language, Afrikaans, formed over many years as people of different nationalities started to develop a combined culture. This tribe traces their origins to the first permanent settlement of Dutch colonists in 1652, to the French Huguenots; Protestant refugees from catholic France and to the early German settlers. Today’s Afrikaners have adapted well to modern day existence and have lost much of their traditional culture, although the characteristics are still there.

Historical Background:
The Dutch were one of the key colonial powers during the seventeenth century. After they had broken Portugal’s monopoly over trade with the East, the Dutch dominated the trade routes via the Cape of Good Hope. It soon became necessary for them to establish a halfway station at the Cape of Good Hope, to provide their ships with food, water and medical services. In 1688 the Dutch settlers were joined by French Huguenots of the Protestant faith, who had fled from France after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, as a result of which they were subjected to large-scale religious persecution. In due course, German settlers also made their way to the Cape of Good Hope.
Birth of the New People:
During the period when the Dutch East India Company ruled the Cape of Good Hope, the settlers were alternately neglected and interfered with. In defence, they developed a sturdy independence of spirit, which was further strengthened by having to ward off intermittent attacks by local indigenous tribes.

Although the various communities were proud of their own traditions and tried to isolate and maintain their separate identities, it was inevitable that they would start to cooperate and combine their efforts. Their thirst for liberty, which had led them to Africa in the first place, frequent social contact and common interests and dangers, created a patriotism and an identity that rose above all cultural differences. The formation of the New People, the Afrikaners (also referred to as the Boers), was inevitable.
British interference:
After the British had assumed control of the Cape in 1805, their colonial governing principles caused intense resentment among the settlers.

Issues such as British labour laws, frontier raiding, general colonial administration, the threat to Boer property rights and, as the last straw, the British decree that English would in future be the only official language, became too much to bear. In true pioneering spirit, the Afrikaner farmers decided to pack up and leave and find a new home far away from the stifling rules of the colonial government.
The Great Trek:
Organized Afrikaner (Boer) parties, now called “Voortrekkers” (“those who move ahead”), left their farms and most of their possessions in the Cape and set off in ox-drawn wagons.
The Voortrekkers experienced many hardships and traumas before being able to establish their much yearned-for free Boer Republics. Long and devastating battles had to be fought against the inhabitants of some of the areas that they so naively thought would be empty and uninhabited. Because the Voortrekkers were not a united nation but an alliance of family households grouped under strong-willed, independent leaders, internal squabbles also added to their problems.

The strife with indigenous Black tribes often led to massacres under which both groups suffered. One of the most famous events in Afrikaner history is the Battle of Blood River, fought in northern KwaZulu-Natal, on 16th of December 1838. This battle was fought in retaliation for the killing of the Boer leader Piet Retief and his men while negotiating a deal for land with the Zulu chief Dingane.

During the battle, the Voortrekker leader, Andries Pretorius and his men defeated 12 000 war-trained Zulus. Before the battle, the Boers swore a solemn oath to God, promising that if He saved them from their enemies, they and their descendants would henceforth celebrate this day as a religious holiday. This battle marked the end of hostilities between the Boers and the Zulus in Natal. When things became more settled, some 6 000 Boers settled in the area, which they called the Republic of Natal (or Natalia). Other groups settled on the Transvaal Highveld and in the Orange Free State.

When the British annexed Natal during 1843, large numbers of Boers once again packed up and left to find freedom in the free Boer Republics of the Transvaal and Orange Free State. The Boer settlements in the Transvaal were later united in what became known as the Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR) (South African Republic – SAR). The capital city was named Pretoriusstad, after Andries Pretorius and later renamed Pretoria. The ‘Great Trek’ changed the political face of southern Africa and was one of the events that forged an even stronger Afrikaner identity.

The Scramble for Diamonds and Gold:
Towards the end of the nineteenth century diamonds and gold were discovered in the Transvaal and the Orange Free State Republics. Envious eyes were turned towards the Afrikaner republics and trouble was soon to follow. The war that was fought for control of the rich goldfields, was called the Anglo-Boer War.
The Anglo-Boer War:
During the early phases of the war, the Boers enjoyed many victories, mainly as a result of their intimate knowledge of the terrain and the dependable help they received from their wives, children and servants, left behind on the farms. However, with the arrival of the main British force in January 1900, conditions changed for the worse. The British erected concentration camps in which they incarcerated Boer and Black women and children and destroyed their homes, livestock and crops.

These harsh measures eventually brought the Boer forces to their knees, forcing them to surrender in May, 1902. However, although the Boers had lost the war, they eventually won the peace. The British granted generous terms to the Boers and in due course allowed the Boers political control over both the ex-Boer republics. Britain did not object in 1909 when the South African National Convention opted to form a union of the two British colonies and the two former republics and drew up a Constitution that left political power firmly entrenched in White Afrikaner hands.
The Union of South Africa (1910-1960):
After the restoration of self-government, Afrikaners earnestly started to rebuild their shattered national pride. Eventually, when the Afrikaners were consolidated on the cultural and political fronts, a new Afrikaner republicanism emerged. It reached its zenith in 1914 and was fuelled by a reaction against the British imperial dominance and an aversion to going to war against the Germans in South West Africa (Namibia). Over the years, the Afrikaners developed a strong desire to keep political power in their hands and to solidify their powerbase. After it had won the general election of 1948, the National Party set its policy of separate development (Apartheid) in motion. This policy included the establishment of Black Homelands, intended to make provision for each African tribe to become self-sufficient and to govern itself.

The Apartheid policies resulted in bitter resentment and fierce resistance from Black South Africans. Black political parties grew in power and international sentiment turned against the Apartheid government. During the years that followed, the Afrikaners slowly but surely started to lose their political power. The liberation of Africa saw the end of colonial White minority rule in Rhodesia and Mozambique and trade and armaments boycotts against South Africa increased. President FW de Klerk eventually released Nelson Mandela, the imprisoned ANC leader and started talks about a transitional Constitution. The ANC won the 1994 national election and political power thus passed from Afrikaner hands to those of the ANC.
Social and cultural life:
From the earliest days of the Afrikaner nation, the Afrikaner’s home, family and church were central to his being. In the early days, most Afrikaners were farmers (hence the name Boers) and their love of the outdoors and of the land has been carried forward through successive generations. Boys helped their fathers with the farming while the girls helped their mothers with the household chores. The latter, apart from cooking and cleaning also included making candles and clothing for themselves and the men.

During the years of British rule, British culture had a profound influence on the Afrikaner who adopted and incorporated into the Afrikaner lifestyle Britain’s parliamentary system of government, business administration, as well as that country’s sense of sportsmanship and etiquette. However, despite these influences, the Afrikaner did not become anglicised but remained true to his own unique heritage and culture. The modern Afrikaner adheres to many of the earlier Boers’ values and beliefs and is still renowned for his hospitality and family values.

Gender Roles:
Traditionally, the Afrikaner had great respect for the elderly and anyone else in a position of authority. The women were often the driving force behind the men. In fact, legend has it that the Afrikaner women declared that they would rather ‘trek’ (hike) over the Drakensberg Mountain Range barefoot than be subject to British rule. They also showed great fortitude during the Anglo-Boer War when thousands were incarcerated in concentration camps with their children, in which a great many of them died. Traditionally, the husband was honoured as the head of the home.
Children were much loved and enjoyed a great deal of freedom but were taught to treat their elders with respect. Afrikaners have always been very family-orientated and fiercely protective of their families and family values.

Special Occasions:
The early Afrikaners loved social gatherings and were famous for their hospitality and sense of humour. Weddings were celebrated with gusto and involved much eating, drinking and dancing. These were the highlights of the social calendar and a time for the young folk to get together.

‘Nagmaal’ (Holy Communion) and the confirmation of young people into the church were special occasions when whole families camped out on the church grounds for the weekend to celebrate the occasion. Since the Battle of Blood River, 16th of December has been commemorated as a holy day, a day on which to thank God for saving the Afrikaner nation from annihilation.

Religious And Political Beliefs:
Next to family, the Afrikaners had great reverence for God, the Church and for their political, cultural and religious leaders. Cultural and religious activities dominated their lives and were heartily supported. Political issues were hotly debated and would bring out the stubborn streak in the Afrikaner psyche. Arguments would at times become so explosive that they sometimes threatened the unity of families and the Afrikaner nation, a phenomenon which can still be seen in the political struggles of South Africa today.
For More info on SA Culture, please Visit http://www.africanexplore.com/pdfpages/pages/Afrikaner.html

South-Africa: Land of Diversity in a Nutshell:

South-Africa: Land of Diversity in a Nutshell:
At the most southern tip of the African Continent lies a country just waiting to be discovered, a place that offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation and cultural sharing. It is a large and scenically diverse country, ringed by beautiful beaches and the blue-green waters of two oceans.

The people are friendly, the beaches and surf are clean and safe, the flora and fauna unique, the cuisine exquisite and the forests emerald green, all contained within an area of approximately 1 220 000 square km. The whole of South Africa is larger than Germany, France, Italy, Belgium and Holland put together and offers just as much cultural diversity.
South Africa’s almost 3000-km long, coastline offers views of unsurpassable beauty and plenty of opportunities for swimming and water sport. Some of the beaches host regular international surfing competitions and the harbours are popular destinations with yacht owners from all over the world.

In land, South Africa provides access to the bordering countries of Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, Mozambique and the Kingdom of Swaziland. The small Kingdom of Lesotho lies in the south-east of the country and is completely enclosed by South Africa. The sophisticated infrastructure makes it the ideal starting point for a tour of the African Continent. The well-developed road and transport system, as well as the excellent accommodation and telecommunications facilities enable visitors to enjoy their stay in comfort. South Africa offers foreign visitors all the comforts they may desire against the backdrop of the unspoilt splendour of Africa.

South Africa is known as a country that houses an amazing diversity of fauna and flora and geographical features within its borders. The scenic diversity is partly caused by the effect of the cold north-flowing Benguela current on the west coast and the warm south-flowing Mozambique-Agulhas current on the east coast. In land from the Escarpment lies the interior plateau with its wide-open plains. Within the contrasting zones of the country some of the world’s most diverse animal and plant kingdoms are found. In fact, South Africa is the only country in the world that can boast of having its own unique floral kingdom, the Cape fynbos.

national flag

Our Provinces:
Our country is divided into nine provinces, each with its own distinct character and identity.

Eastern Cape:
The Eastern Cape is the second largest of the nine provinces. The natural diversity of this province is remarkable, ranging from the dry desolate great Karoo landscape to lush forests, fertile valleys, sandy beaches and the mountainous southern Drakensberg region. The main attraction of the Eastern Cape is its astonishing coastline. With its wide sandy beaches, endless sweeps of rocky coves, secluded lagoons and towering cliffs, the Indian Ocean coastline provides the province with a rich natural resource, offering an attraction for every taste.

Gauteng:
This province is aptly named with the Sotho word, which means “Place of Gold”. Since 1886, when an unemployed miner bent down to pick up a stone and noticed traces of gold, adventurers and dreamers have travelled from all over the world to reach the province of Gauteng. Gauteng is geographically the smallest but economically the most significant of South Africa’s provinces. The modern Gauteng is a province of immense vitality, diversity and, above all, of opportunity. But the landscape is not only covered with modern buildings, Gauteng also has wide, open grasslands, unspoilt thornveld, rolling hills and mountains to offer.

Free State:
Embraced by several other provinces, the Free State lies in the heart of the country. The Kingdom of Lesotho nestles cosily in the hollow of its bean-like shape. From the major cities to the rural village townships, the hospitality of the people is as overwhelming as the scenery is beautiful.

The scenic beauty of the Free State reaches a climax in the Eastern Free State Highlands on the border of Lesotho. The amazing sight of cherry orchards clinging to the sides of sandstone-topped mountains that reflect the different colours of sunrise and sunset is something not to be missed.

KwaZulu-Natal:
This Zulu kingdom by the sea forms the east coast of South Africa and is often called South Africa’s garden province. From the peaks of the Drakensberg Mountain Range that hover protectively over the San rock art heritage to the sandy beaches and subtropical greenery of the coast, it is an amazing sight to behold. Sheer physical beauty combined with a diversity of natural resources and an all-year round sunny climate make this a land well worth visiting. The warm Indian Ocean washing along the KwaZulu Natal beaches makes it the winter-holiday province of the country.

Limpopo:
The Limpopo lies within the area formed by the great elbow of the Limpopo River. This province with its dramatic contrasts, true bushveld country and majestic mountains, indigenous forests and unspoilt wilderness area, is bordered by Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe on the west, east and north respectively. The subtropical climate and high summer rainfalls have combined to create vegetation of breathtaking lushness and beauty. Distant mountains frame the endless landscapes of the true bushveld with its trees and thorny terrain housing the unique wildlife of the area. The province is a well-managed conservation area and is also host to such diverse nature features as wetlands and the Lowveld.

Mpumalanga:
No nature lover or hiker should leave South Africa without having experienced the delights of Mpumalanga. It is an area of immense natural beauty – a true African landscape. The combination of majestic mountain scenery, wide horizons, lush forests and craggy rock formations, quickly brings the visitor under the enchantment of the mystery of Africa. In addition to its fascinating flora and fauna, Mpumalanga also offers the legacy of tribal legends and the gold rush fever of the 1870s.

North West:
North West, the platinum province, is one of the smaller provinces. Together with the Vaal Reef Gold Mines in Gauteng, the platinum mines of the province account for nearly 60 per cent of South Africa’s economic activity. The fertile plains of North West are striped yellow and green by the sunflowers and mealies (maize) that grow abundantly in the hot sun, broken only by the bushveld landscape covered with thorn trees. A journey through the wild Pilanesberg Mountains brings the visitor into the bowl of a crater where two of the country’s most popular casinos and holiday resorts, Sun City and The Lost City, nestle.

Northern Cape:
The vast, sun-kissed Northern Cape is the largest province in South Africa but has the smallest population. Visitors quickly come under the calming influence of the vast open landscapes, the early-morning sunrise over rust-red dunes and the roaming herds of antelope. Much of this immense region is made up of rugged desert, but the mighty Orange River forms the province’s northern boundary with Namibia and waters a highly fertile area where an abundance of crops are grown. South Africa’s wild flower extravaganza takes place here every year after the first spring rains, decorating the arid area with abundant natural colours.

Western Cape:
At the south-western tip of the Continent of Africa, the Western Cape is an area of such beauty and contrast that few people can visit it without falling in love with it. Straddling the Peninsula is the famous Table Mountain – a spectacular backdrop to the city of Cape Town. A landscape of majestic mountains, lush valleys, rivers and beaches, orchards and wine farms await explorers of this region. It is also home to “fynbos”, one of the six floral kingdoms in the world. The abundance and quality of the products of the wine estates, the spectacular Garden Route along the coast and the rugged landscape of the West Coast provide a playground suited to the tastes of all visitors.

Our People:
The South African nation is made up of people whose ancestors have lived here for thousands of years as well as of people whose ancestors travelled from the other side of the world to create a new future for themselves. Our society is a dynamic blend of age-old customs and modern ways and our identity is the result of a mix of cultures, the cross-pollination of ideas, words, customs, art forms as well as of culinary and religious practices. To incorporate the spirit of reconciliation and mutual respect which characterizes the South African society, the country recognizes 11 official languages.

They are, in alphabetical order: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Swazi, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa and Zulu. South Africa is home to the most diverse groups imaginable. City dwellers live their fast-paced Western lifestyle in a world that modern technology has created, and some rural tribe members choose to live very much as their ancestors did hundreds of years ago. A large number of the approximately ten million urban Africans are second and third generation town and city dwellers and hundreds of thousands are migrant workers. As a result, the different cultures have fused together in the cities and a distinctive subculture has developed that includes the traditional and the new.

Our Plant And Animal Life:
South Africa is home to an astonishing variety of plants and animals. Our indigenous plantlife includes some 22 000 species of flowering plants (including 730 species of trees) and some 900 species of birds, representing 22 of the world’s living orders. The country is divided into six natural vegetation regions. The Mediterranean winter rainfall area in the south-western Cape is characterised by fynbos vegetation. To the east lie natural temperate forests and subtropical coastal forests. Behind the mountains that divide the coast from the inner plateau lies a desert and semi-desert landscape, characterised by shrubs and grassland.

The central highland consists of natural grassland and sparse clumps of trees. The coastal stretches are characterised by subtropical humid conditions. Sparse desert flora characterises the vegetation of the West Coast. South Africa is the natural habitat of many species of animals, both carnivore and herbivores. Our most famous four-footed inhabitants are the elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhinoceros, better known as the Big Five. Fortunately, we have a long history of protecting our natural heritage. Visitors can therefore look forward to exploring our many nature reserves and game farms, set among such different landscapes as grassy veld, mountains, beaches, forests and deserts. The country boasts with some 800 game reserves and 19 national parks and hundreds of privately owned wildlife sanctuaries. We also have large tracts of land, wilderness areas, that have been established to protect their original natural character. Romantic and adventurous safaris into the bush are an experience not to be missed, an opportunity to become one with nature and discover our land in a unique way.

Our Economy:
Since the landing of Jan van Riebeeck at the Cape of Good Hope in 1652, the economy in South Africa has progressed rapidly. The South Africa of today is a powerful engine for economic growth in Southern Africa. The country’s sophisticated physical and financial infrastructure provides the ideal investment platform for entry into the markets of other African countries. The industrialisation of South Africa commenced with the discovery of gold in 1888 on the Witwatersrand and today the country has a modern well-diversified economy.

The main contributing sectors are agriculture, manufacturing, mining, commerce, secondary industries and service industries. Although our mineral wealth contributes only nine per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP), it is still the most important asset of the South African economy. Despite earlier political and labour problems, South Africa also has one of the most sophisticate manufacturing industries in Africa. Manufacturing and services together represent some 40 per cent of the gross domestic product (GDP).

Our Agriculture:
Over the years, South African farmers tamed the land and brought green life to the most unlikely areas. The complex climate of the country has led to a diverse agricultural sector being established in South Africa. Three quarters of the land is used for agriculture but only 12 per cent of the land is suitable for dry land crop production. Our uneven rainfall is a potential problem and has caused farmers to become dependent on irrigation and today more than 1,2 million ha are under irrigation.

The agricultural product that takes up the largest area of farmland is maize, followed by wheat, and on a smaller scale, oats, sugar cane and sunflowers. Over the last decade severe droughts have plagued the country and agricultural production went down. However, as far as the production of most primary foods is concerned, we are still self-sufficient. South Africa is a well-known producer of deciduous fruit and there are very few fruits that are not grown here. These fruits are important export products. Another important crop is the grapes from which our world-renowned award-winning wines are manufactured. The main breeds of sheep raised in South Africa are Merino, Dohne Merino, Dormer, Dorper and Karakul. Dairy and beef cattle breeding with breeds such as Afrikaner, Nguni, Drakensberger and Bonsmara is another successful South Africa industry.

Our Mineral Wealth:
The unique and extensive geological formations in South Africa are the origins of our mineral wealth. The Witwatersrand Basin holds a considerable share of the world’s gold reserves, as well as some uranium, silver, pyrite and osmiridium. This basin yields some 98 per cent of South Africa’s gold.
The Bushveld Complex in Mpumalanga and Limpopo produces more than half of the world’s chrome ore. Ores of vanadium, iron, titanium, copper, nickel and fluorspar are also found here.

South Africa also possesses some other important mineral reserves:
The Transvaal System contains more than 80 per cent of the world’s manganese reserves, as well as significant amounts of iron ore. Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal have significant coal and anthracite reserves. The Phalaborwa Igneous Complex contains extensive deposits of copper, titanium, phosphate, iron, vermiculite and zirconium. The Northern Cape has significant deposits of zinc ores, as well as copper and lead. Diamonds (kimberlites, alluvial and marine), as well as titanium, iron and zircon are found all over the country. As a result of these mineral riches, South Africa is one of the world’s largest mineral producers. Most of these minerals are mined for the international market.

Our Climate:
South Africa lies in the Southern Hemisphere, which means that we experience the exact reverse of the seasons in the Northern Hemisphere. South African temperatures are governed by three main features. Firstly, because of South Africa’s greater height above sea level, temperatures tend to be lower here than in other regions in the world in similar latitudes, for example Australia. Secondly, despite a latitudinal span of 13 degrees, average annual temperatures are remarkably uniform throughout the country, mainly due to the increase in the height of the plateau towards the north-east. The third feature is the striking contrast between temperatures on the east and west coasts, as caused by the difference between the temperatures of the Mozambique-Agulhas and Benguela currents.

Over 40 per cent of the country area lies above 1 210m above sea level, a factor which influences the temperatures and rainfall in the interior significantly. South Africa’s climate is generally sunny and temperate, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Our average number of sunshine hours per day is among the highest in the world. Temperatures above 32º C are fairly common in summer in South Africa and in some areas frequently exceed 38º C. Although these temperatures are normally comfortable and are particularly enjoyed by visitors from colder regions, visitors are warned to have respect for our sun and apply sunscreen products when outside for a number of hours.

The dry conditions and abundant sunshine are caused by South Africa’s location in the subtropical belt of high pressure. Fortunately, the wide expanses of ocean on three sides of South Africa have a moderating influence on the climate. Where the land meets the sea, gale-force winds frequently blow, especially in the south-western and southern coastal areas. The rest of the country, however, does not suffer from these winds. Winter temperatures are generally mild and periodic snowfalls only occur in the higher mountain ranges of the Eastern and Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

South Africa has an average annual rainfall of only 464 mm, against the world average of 857mm. In total, 65 per cent of the country has an annual rainfall of less than 500mm which is usually regarded as the absolute minimum for successful dry-land farming. This potential problem has largely been countered by the construction of excellent irrigation systems. Frost often occurs on the interior plateau during cold, clear winter nights, with ice forming on still pools and in water pipes.

The incidence of frost decreases to the north of the country, while the coast is virtually frost-free. Snow is a rare occurrence except on some mountaintops, for example in the Drakensberg Mountain Range.
Another example of our astonishing diversity is the Western Cape that experiences a Mediterranean climate (dry summers and winter rainfall) while the rest of the country gets its rain in summertime.

Our National Symbols:
The South African flag was first used on 27 April 1994. Its colours are black, blue, green, red, yellow and white, but no universal symbolism is attached to the colours since different colours and colour combinations mean different things to different people. The central design, starting as a “V” at the flag-post, coming together in the centre and extending towards the edge in a single line represents the coming together of the diverse elements, that form the South African society.

National Anthem:
The national anthem of South Africa is Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika, composed in 1897 by a teacher called Enoch Sontonga. He was well known for his sad songs written to commemorate the suffering of the African people. The words of the first verse were written as a Xhosa hymn but for decades the oppressed people of South Africa regarded this as their national anthem. Eventually, on 20 April 1994, a proclamation issued by the State President formalised both Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika and Die Stem (The Call of South Africa) as the national anthems. In 1996, a shortened version, combining the two, was released.

Nkosi sikelel’iAfrika and Die Stem / The Call of South Africa
Nkosi sikelel’iAfrika Maluphakanyisw’uphondo lwayo, Yizwa imithandazo yethu, Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo. Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, O fedise dintwa la matshwenyeho, O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, Setjhaba sa South Afrika – South Afrika. Uit die blou van onse hemel, Uit die diepte van ons see, Oor ons ewige gebergtes, Waar die kranse antwoord gee, Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, In South Africa our land.

We, as proud citizens of our country South Africa invite you to come, to explore and to discover the wonders of our world for yourself !

KwaZulu-Natal’s Battlefield Experience – http://www.africanexplore.com

KwaZulu-Natal’s Battlefield Experience should not be missed under any circumstances on your visit to South Africa. The Battlefield Route will take you on a journey of discovery that will remain as a highlight of your South African tour. Zulu wars, Shaka, Isandlwana, Rorkes Drift, Colenso, Spioenkop, Ladysmith, Dundee, Churchill, Blood River, Cetshwayo, Boers … are some of the terms which are associated with this internationally renowned area of South Africa called the Battlefields Witness to decisive events in the annals of three imperious, yet vastly disparate nations, our Kingdom of the Zulu’s easily accessible Battlefields exude power and unmistakable presence…infusing the visitor with an inescapable sense of momentous occasion.

It was among the picturesque hills and rock formations of this sweeping landscape that fearless, spear-wielding foot soldiers of the all-conquering Zulu kings first encountered the rampant British Empire’s sophisticated fire-power… and where each faced the unfamiliar guerrilla-warfare tactics of the Boer – descendants of the west European settlers who five generations earlier had claimed divine right to this ‘Promised Land’. Prophetically, the Zulu also believed the bountiful terrain between fabled Drakensberg mountains and golden Indian Ocean beaches to be their own ‘Heaven on Earth’.
http://www.africanexplore.com

Seventy years of bitter and merciless head-on confrontation proved as pivotal to South Africa’s geo-political evolution as the wars that forged modern Europe and established the freedom, identity and boundaries of North America. Perhaps the most influential British leader of all time first came to public attention amid the heat of battle on Kwa-Zulu Natal soil… while ambush dealt a fatal blow to the continuation of an historic west European dynasty. The legacy of our Zulu Kingdom’s critical, blood-soaked conflicts today lives peacefully-reconciled in this fascinating region’s myriad Battlefield Sites, Historic Towns, National Monuments and Museums – and in HQs of the British regiments that make ‘pilgrimage’ to these fields of bravery and supreme sacrifice.

Friendly and accredited local guides guarantee hour upon hour of captivating company. All at the Battlefields Route Association welcome you to our slice of the inimitable Kingdom of the Zulu, and look forward to sharing with you our insights, enthusiasm and know-how… plus a truly memorable South African experience.

http://www.africanexplore.com

World Cup Soccer – http://www.africanexplore.com

http://www.africanexplore.com

I heard an interview the other day that said there could only be one winner and whilst I understood what they meant,  this statement is simply not true.  Today we can proudly say that we have delivered the finest World Cup to date - in every respect.  We need to take time to reflect on this magnificent achievement and to realise that today is not the end,  but the beginning for our South African tourism industry.     Well done to you,  for all that you have done in the delivery of the event and making sure that each and every person has left the country with a positive experience of both our people and facilities.  Well done and thank you. I know that I am not the only one today who is proud to be a South African and know, that we all also understand our responsibility to take what we Now have and make it something truly special.

http://www.africanexplore.com

Hello world!

Welcome to WordPress.com. This is your first post. Edit or delete it and start blogging!