KIMBERLEY – The Vaal River is known for its unpredictable and often destructive flooding, but the recent floods have posed an even greater threat to Kimberley’s Nooitgedacht glacial pavements and rock art site. According to the McGregor Museum, about 90% of the ancient engravings are submerged, and the full impact of the flooding is uncertain.
The Nooitgedacht site is home to more than 1,200 engravings, many of which are more than 3,000 years old. These engravings are a reminder of the presence of the San people in the region and represent a valuable part of South Africa’s cultural heritage.
The Nooitgedacht Glacial Pavements are a unique geological feature in South Africa, believed to have been formed some 300 million years ago during the Dwyka Ice Age, or Karoo Ice Age. These pavements are made up of ancient bedrock smoothed and striated by glaciers and re-exposed by erosion, and were used during the Later Stone Age period in the late Holocene as panels for rock engravings. This feature is a testament to the ancient history of South Africa and the ingenuity of its people.
The McGregor Museum has been working with a variety of partners to protect the site for more than 20 years. However, the recent flooding has posed a serious threat to the engravings. The McGregor Museum has expressed concern that the engravings could be damaged beyond repair.
The McGregor Museum is also working with various partners to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Nooitgedacht site and helping preserve this important cultural heritage.
The Vaal River flooding has presented a major challenge to protecting the Nooitgedacht glacial pavements and rock art site. It’s important to ensure that these ancient engravings are preserved and protected for future generations to enjoy.