The Gauteng Department of Arts and Culture has assured the public that the historic Mandela House Museum in Orlando West, Soweto, will not be liquidated, despite a years-long unresolved liquidation process.
The Soweto Tourism Association (SUTA) has called on the provincial government to urgently address the liquidation issue, which began over five years ago. The museum, where former President Nelson Mandela lived with his family from 1946 to 1962, remains a key heritage site and a major tourist attraction.
SUTA spokesperson expressed concern over the stalled process, recalling that in 2020, the provincial government under former Premier David Makhura had promised intervention. However, no significant progress has been made since then.
“We owe it to the former statesman to preserve his legacy projects,” the spokesperson said. “It makes no sense to liquidate this museum and have others take over when the issue is governance-related.”
Historians emphasize the museum’s significance as a symbol of South Africa’s liberation struggle, urging its protection. International visitors frequently include the site on their itineraries, boosting local tourism.
The Gauteng Arts and Culture Department has since reassured stakeholders that negotiations with liquidators are progressing. A government representative stated that an offer has been made to transfer the property to a provincial agency, preventing liquidation.
“We are awaiting feedback, but we will not allow the property to be liquidated,” the official said. “Our goal is to safeguard this heritage site for future generations.”
Authorities remain optimistic that a resolution will be reached soon, ensuring that no assets from Mandela’s former home are sold or removed.
