The Day of Reconciliation (Public Holiday)

Different racial groups stand together for the sake of the future of South Africa

The Day of Reconciliation is a public holiday with the intention to foster reconciliation between different racial groups. The holiday came into effect in 1994 after the end of Apartheid.

On 16 December 1838, about 10 00 Zulu troops under the command of Dambuza (Nzobo) and Nhlela attacked the Voortrekkers, but the 470 Voortrekkers, with the advantage of gun powder, warded them off. Only three Voortrekkers were wounded, but more than 3 000 Zulus were killed during the battle.

During Apartheid, 16 December was known as Day of the Vow. The Voortrekkers, in preparation for the battle, took a vow before God that they would build a church and that they and their descendants would observe the day as a day of thanksgiving should they be granted victory.

With the advent of democracy and a heroic gesture by the new government in South Africa, 16 December retained its status as a public holiday, however, this time with the purpose of fostering reconciliation and national unity.

Molo Says: Discover our Heartbeat section to see which individuals and Social Projects are attempting to bring South Africans and South Africa together.

Read about all the other South African Public Holidays on Capetownmagazine.com:

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