To provide for the incorporation of the World Heritage Convention into South African law; the enforcement and implementation of the World Heritage Convention in South Africa; the recognition and establishment of World Heritage Sites; the establishment of Authorities and the granting of additional powers to existing organs of state; the powers and duties of such Authorities, especially those safeguarding the integrity of World Heritage Sites; where appropriate, the establishment of Boards and Executive Staff Components of the Authorities; integrated management plans over World Heritage Sites; land matters in relation to World Heritage Sites; financial, auditing and reporting controls over the Authorities; and to provide for incidental matters.

Latest Developments:

The World Heritage Convention Act, 1999 (Act No. 49 of 1999), has been updated with the Declaration of the MEC responsible for the environment in the Gauteng Province as the Management Authority for the Fossil Hominid site of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai and environs (Cradle of Humankind) World Heritage Site, as per Notice No. 4508 of GG50293 dated 15 March 2024.

The World Heritage Convention Act, 1999 (Act No. 49 of 1999), has been updated with the Declaration of Management Authority for Robben Island Museum World Heritage Site, as per Notice No. 3380 of GG48524 dated 5 May 2023.

The World Heritage Convention Act, 1999 (Act No. 49 of 1999), has been updated with the Amended Format and Procedure for nomination of World Heritage Sites in the Republic of South Africa, as per Notice No. 2251 of GG46685 dated 8 July 2022.