The Fourth Watercourse History Festival in Plettenberg Bay is set to take place between April 26 and 29, and will once again attract some of the country's top authors and history buffs.

Date: 26 - 29 April 2023
Venue: Piesang Valley Community Hall
Full Programme: Click here

At this year’s event, top South African political and history publisher Jacana will headline four of their best authors: Dr. June Bam will speak about her book, “Ausi Told Me: Why Cape Herstoriographies Matter”; Hennie van Vuuren will speak about powerful politicians and corporations who profit from immunity; Rory Riordan will speak on his recently released book, “Apartheid’s Stalingrad,” and Buntu Siwisa will share knowledge captured in his book, “Rugby, Resistance, and Politics: Dan Qeqe and a People’s History of Port Elizabeth.” 

Ron Martin, head of the SA First People's Museum Foundation, will impart his expertise on the Griqua people's history from Piketberg to Plettenberg Bay while historian Dean Allen will speak about his book Empire, War and Cricket: Logan of Matjiesfontein.

Investigative journalist De Wet Potgieter will switch things up with a talk on rhino poaching, and another journalist, John Matisson, will share more on his book Afghanistan: Every Empire Tried its Luck. 

Wrapping up the festival will be historian Shalo Mbatha, who will speak about succession in the Zulu kingdom, and presentations by former war correspondent turned novelist Hamilton Wende and journalist Joseph Oesi about the ANC's long-standing relationship with the former Soviet Union.

Attendees can expect to come away with a deeper understanding of South Africa's past and a newfound appreciation for its unique cultural heritage.

Tickets are available at Barney's Kiosk at the Market Square Shopping Centre and through Quicket.

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