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Different Cultures, heritage and traditions embraced at the 2018 Durban Port Festival

Different Cultures, heritage and traditions embraced at the 2018 Durban Port Festival

The Durban University of Technology Confucius Institute together with eThekwini Municipality, MSC Cruises and the Kwa-Zulu Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs embraced the diversity of cultures, tradition and heritage during the 2018 Durban Port Festival held over the weekend (29 & 30 September 2018).

The Durban Port Festival was hosted by Transnet National Ports Authority at Wilson’s Wharf in Durban. The rich history of South Africa busiest commercial port was also showcased.

The Festival which commenced on Saturday (29 September) morning began with a parade and for the first time, the Chinese traditional Dragon Dance and Lion Dance were part of the historical event. This event which was ogarnised by DUT’s CI boasted ingenious layout, variable movements accompanied with a strong sense of rhythm, provided with the best of verve for this mystic and ancient intangible cultural heritage from Far-East. Other events that were popular at the 2018 Port Festival was the Dragon Boat race.

DUT CI Director, Frank Wu said they were ecstatic to see the interest from not only their peers they were working with on this, but also those who took part in it. “We are all very excited to see this event being successful in Durban. We would like to see this Chinese sport developing in KZN, because this is the sport that could unite people from different cultures to share the spirits and values of this particular sport. It is vital to share cultures and happiness,” he said.

According to Durban Port Acting Manager Nokuzola Nkowane, the port festival encouraged communities to enjoy themselves but also pay close attention to the edutainment that was presented to them. Our Port Festivals encourage communities to enjoy all the edutainment line up for them to get excited about the Oceans Economy, to develop a connection with Durban Port under the theme: “Our heritage, better shipping for a better future”, said Nkowane.

Every year the Durban Port Festival is attended by nearly 10,000 citizens who participate in the celebrations. The Port Festival is greatly supported by the KZN government and various other stakeholders.

Pictured: Some of the attendees of the Durban Port Festival having a good time.

Frank Lin Wu

 

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