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The objectives of this Act are, inter alia, to: (a) provide for, the cultural and environmental protection and sustainable development of, and related activities within, World Heritage Sites; and giving effect to the values of the World Heritage Convention; (b) make the Convention part of South African domestic law and to create a framework to ensure that the Convention and the Operational Guidelines are effectively implemented in the Republic; (c) ensure that everything done in terms of this Act conforms with the obligations of the Republic in terms of the Convention and the Operational Guidelines;(d) ensure that effective and active measures are taken for the protection, conservation and presentation of the cultural and natural heritage of the Republic; (e) encourage investment and innovation in connection with World Heritage Sites; and (f) promote the development of culturally, environmentally and, if applicable, economically sustainable projects in connection with World Heritage Sites (sect. 3). Section 4 outlines the fundamental principles of this Act. Where an existing organ of state is already lawfully managing or involved in a World Heritage Site, the Minister may declare that organ of state to an Authority under this Act. The Minister may also establish new Authorities under section 9.
Implemented by: Establishment of the Greater St. Lucia Wetlands Park and Authority (Notice No. R. 4477 of 2000). (2000-11-24)
Implemented by: Regulations in terms of the World Heritage Convention Act, 1999 in connection with the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park (Notice No. R. 1193 of 2000). (2000-11-24)
Implemented by: Delegation of powers under the World Heritage Convention Act (Notice No. R. 723 of 2002). (2002-05-24)
Implemented by: Proclamation of the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas as a World Heritage Site and Delegation by the Minister of Certain Powers and Duties to the Director-General of the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (No. 72 of 2009). (2009-01-30)
Implemented by: Proclamation of Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape as a World Heritage Site and Delegation by the Minister of Certain Powers and Duties to South African National Parks (SANPARKS) (No. 71 of 2009). (2009-01-30)