Abstract

South Africa has a rich and varied store of underwater cultural heritage (UCH) that possibly goes back to the dawn of humankind. The first recorded Dutch wreck, the Eiland Mauritius , occurred in Table Bay in 1644. Many more followed, a number of which have been subsequently discovered and excavated, revealing important archaeological and historical information. The National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA) provides for an effective protection regime for UCH found within South Africa's terrestrial and maritime jurisdiction. Legislative amendment in a number of areas will therefore need to be taken before South Africa will be in a position to ratify and give effect to the UNESCO Convention 2001. The management of UCH in South Africa is compatible with the policies that underpin the UNESCO Convention and the Rules in its Annex, and it is expected that South Africa eventually will ratify the Convention. Keywords: National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA); South Africa; Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH); UNESCO Convention

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