When Jay-Z rapped, “I got 99 problems,” he wasn’t talking about South Africa. As a proud South African, I’m aware of the socio-economic challenges we face. But my country is beautiful and, filled with resilient people. In this post, I want to list the 99 fascinating facts that celebrate my home. From its breathtaking landscapes and innovative spirit, there’s so much about South Africa that fills me with pride. Join me as we explore these facts.
Rich Linguistic Diversity
We have 12 official languages in South Africa. A few of them are Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English, and Sign Language. The fictional Wakanda uses isiXhosa, one of South Africa’s real languages, adding authenticity to the film.
Youngest Official Language
Afrikaans, one of South Africa’s official languages, it evolved from Dutch and was officially recognised in 1925. It blends Dutch with elements from Malay, Portuguese, Indonesian, and indigenous languages. It’s also my second home language.
World’s Highest Commercial Bungee Jump
Did you know? that the world’s highest commercial bungee jump at 216 meters (710 feet) is from Bloukrans Bridge in the Western Cape.
First African in Space
In 2002, Mark Shuttleworth became the first African in space, traveling to the International Space Station aboard a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. I remember the buzz around the event and how everyone was talking about it. It was a big deal, and I even had space-themed homework in high school for a while.
Ubuntu Operating System
Mark Shuttleworth is also known for founding the Ubuntu operating system, a widely used open-source platform. His contributions to technology have had a significant impact on computing.
Ground Tracking Station
South Africa was home to a crucial ground tracking station at Hartebeesthoek, near Johannesburg, which played a significant role in NASA’s Apollo missions in the 1960s.
The South African Large Telescope (SALT)
Located in Sutherland, SALT is one of the world’s largest optical telescopes, renowned for its advanced astronomical research.
Pratley Putty
Prately Putty was invented by George Pratley, this putty was used in the Apollo 11 mission and has been a key component in various significant projects.
Professor Mulalo Doyoyo
In 2005 the late Professor Doyoyo invented Cenocell, a form of cementless concrete, which replaces traditional cement with more sustainable materials, reducing environmental impact. He also invented Amoriguard in 2013. It is a eco-friendly paint created using fillers from recycled industrial waste, aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of paint production.
Computicket
The late Percy Tucker invented the world’s first computerised ticketing system in 1971, revolutionising ticket sales. I had no idea about this one until I started researching facts for this post.
Kreepy Krauly
The Kreepy Krauly was created by Ferdinand Chauvier in 1974, this automatic pool cleaner has become a global favourite. As a child, I was so freaked out by it—I genuinely thought it might suck me in like a leaf in the pool! Ha ha ha.
Sasol
Sasol invented the process to create petrol and diesel from coal. they made an ad which I loved as a kid. the grandparents of a baby both try to get the child to say grandpa and grandpa respectively. They baby instead says glug glug and Sasol, he then speeds away in his pram. You can watch it here but it is in Afrikaans:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?=YACq1rYHxAE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?=YACq1rYHxAE
Kimberley Electric Streetlights (1882)
Kimberley where my grandmother is from was the first town in the southern hemisphere to install electric streetlights.
Global Leader in Solar Power
South Africa has been a leader in solar energy innovation, particularly through the Kathu Solar Park. This facility, is located in the Northern Cape, it uses concentrated solar power (CSP) technology to generate electricity and is one of the largest CSP plants in the world. After learning about this I’m wondering why we still have issues with electricity supply?
Hummer Production
General Motors South Africa assembled the Hummer H3 from 2007 to 2010, the only facility outside the U.S. to do so.
Mercedes-Benz Manufacturing
Mercedes-Benz manufactures right-hand drive vehicles for markets like the UK and Australia at its East London plant. We drive on the right hand side of the road here in South Africa.
Invention of Q20
Q20 is a versatile lubricant, invented in Pinetown in 1950, started as a solution for VW Beetle distributor caps and is now used globally. Almost everyone I know in South Africa tends to keep a bottle on hand to help fix rusty gates etc.
Max Theiler
The first African-born Nobel laureate, Max Theiler developed the yellow fever vaccine and won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1951.
Dr. Christiaan Barnard
Dr. Christiaan Barnard performed the world’s first successful human heart transplant at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town in 1967. I visited the Heart of Cape Town Museum as a child and found it very creepy, check it out if you want to learn more about the first successful heart transplant.
Professor Mashudu Tshifularo
Professor Mashudu Tshifularo made history in 2019 by replacing a patient’s middle ear bones with 3D-printed analogues.
CT Scan Innovation
South African physicist Allan Cormack contributed to the development of the CT scan, winning a Nobel Prize in 1979. As someone who’s needed a CT scan to check what was happening with my sinus I’m eternally grateful for this invention.
Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital
Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital is the third largest hospital in the world by bed capacity, located in Soweto, Johannesburg. I drove past it whilst travelling to a wedding and it is enormous.
COVID-19 Research
South Africa identified the Beta and Omicron variants, with significant contributions from its genomic surveillance efforts.
Traditional herbal medicine
Our herbal medicine is known for its diverse and effective remedies, is gaining international recognition! With plants like Rooibos and Buchu (which I hate the taste of) ,drawing global interest for their health benefits, South Africa’s indigenous knowledge is contributing to global herbal medicine.
Leading Universities
South Africa is home to several prominent universities that are recognised for their academic excellence and research. Notable institutions include the University of Cape Town (UCT), the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), and Stellenbosch University. Read more here: Gauteng News
Vilakazi Street’s Nobel Laureates
Vilakazi Street in Soweto is unique for being the only street where two Nobel Peace Prize laureates, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, lived. See more: Vilakazi Street
Unique Monarchy
Kwa-Zulu-Natal’s Zulu monarchy is recognised by the South African Constitution in a largely ceremonial role.
Nuclear Disarmament
South Africa is the only country to have voluntarily dismantled its nuclear weapons program by 1994. There’s a whole other story as to why that happened but that’s a story for my other blog.
Same-Sex Marriage Pioneer
South Africa was the first African country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2006 with the Civil Union Act. Read more here.
G20 Membership
South Africa became the first African country to join the G20, highlighting its significant role in the global economy. As of 2023, the African Union has also joined the G20, further emphasising Africa’s growing influence on the world stage
BRICS Role
South Africa’s membership in BRICS highlights its key position in global economic dialogues, providing a vital African perspective in shaping international policies. As the sole African member, South Africa bridges global economic conversations with the continent’s unique insights and needs.
Three Capital Cities
South Africa uniquely has three capital cities: Pretoria (executive), Cape Town (legislative), and Bloemfontein (judicial).
International Impact of South Africa’s TRC Trials
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), established in South Africa post-apartheid, is renowned worldwide for its innovative approach to dealing with past human rights abuses.
Rainbow Nation
The term “Rainbow Nation,” popularised by Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, reflects South Africa’s rich cultural diversity.
Legal Boldness on the Global Stage
South Africa made history by being the first country to file a lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This move highlights South Africa’s commitment to addressing international conflicts and human rights issues on a global scale, learn more here.
Winston Churchill’s Captivity
Before becoming British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill was a prisoner of war in South Africa during the Second Boer War.
Rich Ecosystems
South Africa features diverse ecosystems, from deserts and wetlands to grasslands and subtropical forests.
Cape Floral Kingdom
The Cape Floral Kingdom is one of the world’s six floral kingdoms, known for its high biodiversity and endemic species.
Treacherous Coastline
The coastline of the Cape of Good Hope is notorious for its treacherous conditions, with over 2,000 recorded shipwrecks. Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias, who experienced its fierce storms firsthand, aptly named it “Cabo das Tormentas” or the Cape of Storms.
South Africa is the only country where two major oceans meet
The Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet along the South African coastline. This point of convergence is located at the Cape Agulhas. Cape Agulhas is the southernmost tip of the African continent and is famously known for being the geographical meeting point of these two oceans. The difference in water temperatures, colours, and currents at this confluence creates a distinct visual and ecological contrast.
Tugela Falls
Tugela is officially the world’s second-highest waterfall, with a total drop of about 948 meters (3,110 feet), located in the Drakensberg Mountains.
Johannesburg’s Urban Forest
Johannesburg is known as the world’s largest man-made urban forest with over 10 million trees.
Blyde River Canyon
The Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest canyons globally, featuring stunning geological formations and diverse wildlife.
Largest and Smallest Succulents
South Africa is home to the world’s smallest succulents and the Big Baobab, one of the largest baobab trees.
Table Mountain’s Ancient Origins
Table Mountain is one of the world’s oldest mountains, with rock formations around 600 million years old.
Barberton Mountain Range
The Barberton mountain range range features some of the oldest exposed rocks on Earth, over 3.5 billion years old.
Big Five Viewing
South Africa offers exceptional opportunities to view the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) in its game reserves and national parks.
Hermanus Whale Watching
Hermanus is recognised as one of the best land-based whale-watching destinations globally.
Sardine Run Migration
South Africa hosts the sardine run one of the largest animal migrations, attracting numerous predators along our coast.
Conservation Efforts
South Africa leads in rhinoceros conservation and was the first country to fully protect the Great White shark in 1991. We currently have less Great whites visiting our oceans but it’s rumoured to be because of whales attacking them.
South African Innovations in Water Conservation
South Africa has been a pioneer in water conservation techniques, including the development of grey water recycling systems and advanced irrigation technologies to combat our water scarcity issues. I’m from Cape Town and my city was on it’s way to a total drought and we averted it by learning how to reduce water consumption.
Kingdom of Lesotho
Surrounded entirely by South Africa, Lesotho is one of only three countries landlocked by a single country. Click here to find out why.
Springboks’ Rugby World Cup Wins
South Africa’s rugby team, the Springboks, won the Rugby World Cup in 1995, 2007, 2019, and 2023.
Banyana Banyana
South Africa’s national women’s soccer team, Banyana Banyana, has made waves internationally by qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup and winning the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations multiple times. Their achievements not only spotlight South Africa’s talent on the global stage but also inspire young female athletes worldwide!
Host of Major Sports Events
South Africa has hosted the FIFA World Cup (soccer) in 2010, the Cricket World Cup in 2003, and the Rugby World Cup in 1995.
Comrades Marathon
The Comrades which was created to commorated Word War I, is the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon. It covers roughly 89 kilometers (55 miles), held annually between Pietermaritzburg and Durban.
Golf Legends
South Africa has produced legendary golfers such as Gary Player, Ernie Els, and Louis Oosthuizen.
Tennis Champion’s South African Connection
Roger Federer, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has a special link to South Africa through his mother, Lynette Federer, who was born in South Africa.
Cape Town Cycle Tour
The largest timed cycle race in the world is the Cape Town Cycle tour , attracting thousands of cyclists annually and offering stunning Cape Town views.
Midmar Mile
The Midmar Mile is the world’s largest open water swimming event, held annually in the Midmar Dam, it attracts tens of thousands of swimmers.
World-Class Surfing Spots
South Africa is famous for its world-class surfing locations, such as Jeffrey’s Bay, known for its long, consistent waves and international surfing competitions.
Nando’s Origins
Founded in Johannesburg in 1987, Nando’s is famous for its peri-peri chicken and now operates over 1,000 outlets worldwide.
Notable South African Musicians
Talented musicians include the Brenda Fassie, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba, and newer stars like Tyla and Candice Pillay.
Top DJs
South African DJs such as Black Coffee, who won a Grammy, along with Euphonik, Culoe De Song, and Goldfish, are recognised globally.
Global Dance Phenomena
South Africa’s vibrant dance and music culture has gained international recognition through genres like Kwaito and Amapiano. Kwaito emerged in the 1990s, blending house music with African rhythms and has been a significant influence in global dance music. Amapiano, a more recent genre, mixes deep house, jazz, and traditional South African sounds, and has become a global sensation with its unique beats and rhythms. Additionally, Gqom, a genre from Durban known for its intense, bass-heavy sound, is also making waves worldwide. Bhenga is the dance form which stems from gqom. Read more here: Dance, Music
Dr. Esther Mahlangu
Known for her Ndebele art, Dr. Mahlangu made history as the first African woman commissioned to design a BMW car, collaborating with global brands. The photo on the left is the Ndebele art work at the National Art Gallery in Cape Town. Isa Kabini and Esther Mahlangu are a few of the artists which contributed to this exhibition. The one on the right is of Dr. Mahlangu captured by LubabaloD .
San Rock Art
South Africa features some of the most ancient and well-preserved rock art by the San people, offering insights into early human culture.
Cultural Festivals
We hosts vibrant festivals such as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, the Durban International Film Festival, and the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown. For a comprehensive guide to South African cultural festivals, check out this festival guide.
Notable South African Actors
Acclaimed actors include Charlize Theron, Arnold Vosloo, Kim Engelbrecht,Embeth Davidtz, John Kani, Sharlto Copley, Terry Pheto, Warren Masemola, and Thuso Mbedu.
First hollywood style film studio
Cape Town Film Studios is the first custom-built Hollywood-style film studio complex of its kind in Africa, with state-of-the-art support services. Backed by national, provincial and local governments and with private shareholdings, it’s envisioned as the dedicated hub for media, new media, entertainment, film and related industries in South Africa and Africa.
Oscar-Nominated and Award-Winning South African Films
Films like “District 9” and “Tsotsi” have gained international acclaim, with “Tsotsi” winning an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
Significant Film Locations
South Africa has hosted international productions such as District 9, Mad Max: Fury Road, Black Panther, One Piece and many others. Find out more:https://www.wisemove.co.za/post/south-africas-film-industry
Internationally acclaimed comedians
Trevor Noah, known for hosting The Daily Show, has achieved global fame Loyiso Gola,David Kau, Riaad Moosa, Celeste Ntuli and Barry Hilton have also gained recognition beyond South Africa.
Vibrant Photography Scene
South Africa boasts a vibrant photography scene with internationally recognised talent. Photographers like Zubedia Valley capture stunning and evocative imagery, Benny Gool’s work offers powerful insights into South Africa’s social transitions, and Omar Badsha’s photos document the country’s cultural heritage and social change. These photographers showcase the beauty and complexity of South Africa while contributing to global conversations through their impactful visual storytelling.
Global Beauty Pageant Winners
South Africa has a remarkable track record in international beauty pageants. Notable wins include Miss World 1958 and 2014 (Penelope Anne Coelen and Rolene Strauss, respectively), and Miss International 1974 (Jacqueline May). Additionally, three South African women have won the Miss Universe title: Margaret Gardiner in 1978, Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters in 2017, and Zozibini Tunzi in 2019.https://www.news24.com/life/arts-and-entertainment/celebrities/photos-a-look-back-at-sas-first-miss-world-20200916
Cape Winelands
This major wine-producing region features around 560 wineries and the world’s longest wine route, Route 62.
Pinotage Origins
Pinotage, a unique red wine varietal, was created in South Africa in 1925 by crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. Read more here: https://pinotage.co.za/heritage/
Oldest Continually-Producing Wine Estate
Klein Constantia, founded in 1685, is known for its historic Constantia wine, favoured by figures like Napoleon Bonaparte.
Award-Winning Wines
South African wines have received global recognition at competitions like the Decanter World Wine Awards and International Wine Challenge. Find out more: https://www.bravenewworld.wine/2023/03/south-african-wine-on-the-world-stage/
Vredefort Dome
Vredefort Dome is the oldest and largest confirmed meteorite impact site, estimated to be 2.02 billion years old, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cradle of Humankind
The Cradle of Humankind near Johannesburg, is crucial for understanding early human evolution and includes many significant fossil finds. Read here:https://www.maropeng.co.za/content/page/introduction-to-your-visit-to-the-cradle-of-humankind-world-heritage-site
Mossel Bay’s Ancient Footprints
In 2018, researchers discovered the world’s oldest known footprints in Mossel Bay. These 120,000-year-old footprints were made by early humans and are crucial for understanding human migration and evolution.
Early Human Remains
South Africa is home to the oldest remains of anatomically modern humans, found at Blombos Cave and Klasies River Caves.
Fossil Hominids
Discoveries like “Lucy” have provided critical evidence about human evolution, with significant finds in South Africa.
Karoo Fossil Beds
The Karoo fossil beds are renowned for Permian and Triassic period fossils, about 80% of South Africa’s mammalian fossils come from this region.
The Khoi San People
Among the world’s oldest ethnic groups, the Khoi San people boast a history that spans thousands of years. Known for their distinctive click languages and vibrant beadwork, they embody a deep cultural heritage that continues to captivate and inspire. My great-grandmother on my father’s side was Nama, part of this rich tradition.
Indian Community
South Africa is home to one of the largest populations of Indians outside of India. The Indian community, with roots tracing back to indentured labourers and traders from the 19th and 20th centuries, continues to play a significant role in the country’s cultural, social, and economic landscape.
Mineral Production
A major global producer of minerals like gold, platinum, and diamonds, South Africa significantly impacts the global mining industry.
Cullinan Diamond
The Cullian Diamond was discovered in 1905, it was the largest gem-quality diamond ever found and was cut into several stones, including the Great Star of Africa.
South Africa’s Fashion Industry
South Africa’s fashion industry is celebrated globally: it is colourful, blends modern and traditional aspects and is trendy without losing its unique identity. Designers like Gert-Johan Coetzee, David Tlale, and Stella Jean (who incorporates African prints into her collections) have gained international recognition. Additionally, South Africa hosts the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Johannesburg and Cape Town, showcasing local talent on a global stage and attracting attention from fashion enthusiasts around the world. The dress I’m wearing below is by Khosi Nkosi they have been trading for 15 years and I love their clothes.
Shweshwe
Shweshwe is a South African fabric that is not only a symbol of our culture but has also made its mark in the global fashion industry. It has been featured in high-profile fashion shows and is embraced by designers around the world for its unique patterns and cultural significance.
Basotho blankets
These blankets of the Basotho culture have gained international recognition for their vibrant patterns and traditional craftsmanship. They are worn by the Basotho people of South Africa and Lesotho. Their unique designs and cultural significance have made them a celebrated part of global fashion. You can buy them here: https://www.aranda.co.za/
South African Beaded Jewellery
Renowned for its intricate patterns and vibrant colours, South African beaded jewellery reflects our rich cultural heritage. Distinct styles from various ethnic groups like the Zulu, Xhosa, and Ndebele each tell a unique story through their artistry and tradition.
Diverse Cuisine
South African cuisine includes dishes like bobotie, bunny chow, chakalaka, and biltong, reflecting our multicultural heritage. Read more:https://southafricatravel.org/traditional-south-african-dishes-you-must-try/
Internationally Acclaimed Culinary Talent
Chefs like Luke Dale-Roberts and Margot Janse from South Africa are celebrated for their global culinary contributions.https://taste.co.za/21-cooks-shaping-sa-food/
Rooibos Tea
Unique to South Africa, rooibos tea comes from the Cederberg region of the Western Cape. It gets exported and has health benefits. I love rooiboos tea and I tend to have it without sugar or with honey.
South Africa’s World Heritage Architecture
The country boasts architectural wonders like the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa, and the iconic Durban City Hall.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
South Africa has several, including Fossil Hominid Sites, Mapungubwe, Richtersveld, Robben Island, Cape Floral Region, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Vredefort Dome, and uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park. Find out more:https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/za
South Africa’s Literary Giants
Acclaimed writers from South Africa include J.M. Coetzee, Nadine Gordimer, Alan Paton, Bessie Head, Zakes Mda, and Marlene van Niekerk. Read the list of authors here: https://sites.northwestern.edu/exploresouthafricanlit/south-african-fiction-list/
J.R.R. Tolkien’s South African Connection
Tolkien, best known for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, was born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, in 1892.
That’s a wRAP (yep, another Jay-Z pun)! There are some “facts” I chose not to include, such as the claim that the sardine run can be seen from space—it seemed a bit far-fetched. Each fact in this post is linked to its source for verification. While I could have added more about South Africa’s inventions and wildlife, the post is already quite lengthy. If you have any additional information to share, please let me know in the comments, and I might consider putting together a Part 2. And if you made it through the entire post, a huge thank you!
Happy travels!
Nikkidiscovers 