Cultural institutions within Sol Plaatje Municipality will be launching the Museums Passport Initiative this September in light of Heritage and Tourism Month.

This initiative aims to raise awareness of key cultural institutions, increase visitor numbers, and showcase the rich historical offerings in the Northern Cape.

‘It’s an Amazing Race style experience’

“The Museums Passport Initiative is an ‘Amazing Race’ style experience, which encourages tourists to visit multiple museums and heritage sites across Kimberley,” said William Humphreys Art Gallery chief curator, Chepape Makgato.

“Participants who complete the journey will not only deepen their knowledge of South Africa’s history but also stand a chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip on board the luxurious Blue Train.”

The initiative will officially be launched on Wednesday (18/9) at The Big Hole Museum and will run through October, aligning with the three commemorative months: Heritage and Tourism Month in September, and Transport Month in October.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the following institutions:

• Transnet Transport Museum (TTM) – Kimberley,
• William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG)
• McGregor Museum
• The Big Hole Museum

“The Museums Passport is a brilliant opportunity for local, regional, and global tourists to engage with our heritage in an interactive and rewarding way,” said a representative from the group of participating museums.

“Our goal is to promote Kimberley’s rich cultural history and ensure these institutions remain central to our community.”

William Humphreys Art Gallery walk about. Picture: Facebook 

The “Museum Passport” will be executed by taking your passport book to each museum mentioned and visiting the building for at least 20 minutes to then receive a stamp to be eligible for the grand prize draw, giving them the chance to fully experience each institution’s unique offerings.

Participants who complete the journey will be deepening their knowledge of the rich history within Kimberley, and also stand a chance to win a trip on board the Blue Train.

“The grand prize is a double ticket, valued at R73 000 for a single journey from Cape Town to Pretoria or vice versa. The prize is to be taken up either between 01 January and 31 July 2025 or from 16 November to 31 December 2025,” said Makgato.

OFM News/Casey-Lee Anthony cg