As a global organisation with more than 62,000 employees working in over 100 countries - respecting the people, the cultures and the communities in which we operate - forms the cornerstone of our company’s values.

It is for this reason that Chevron continues to contribute to the social and economic development of the many communities in which we conduct our business. One way in which we do this is to support projects and initiatives that promote arts and culture.

In the Western Cape, the company is giving its support to the Kaapse Klopse Karnivaal Association.

Each year, more than 12 000 minstrels take to the streets of Cape Town in a colourful parade that celebrates the rich culture and heritage of the people of the Cape. The annual “Kaapse Klopse Karnivaal” marks the arrival of each New Year and sees musicians and carnival-goers painting their faces white, dressing in brightly coloured outfits and cheering and singing through the main streets of the City. It is a proud and joyful tradition that has been celebrated for many years.

The minstrels are grouped into klopse ("clubs" in Cape Dutch, but more accurately translated as troupes in English). Participants are typically from Afrikaans-speaking working class families who have preserved the custom since the mid-19th century.

The story goes that minstrels from the United States of America first visited the Cape in 1848. This was ten years after the then British colony of the Cape had abolished slavery (but years before emancipation of the slaves in America).

The minstrel carnival is a live organ of Cape Town: a rich heritage, it is loaded with history. It is a culture held high in pride and dignity and probably the only festival event that is co-ordinated and managed by the descendants of District Six and the Bo-Kaap (Malay Quarters).

A wonderful spectacle, the carnival remains a traditional New Year’s celebration which originally marked the one day-off a year that the slaves were granted by their masters.

The modern day event is a flamboyant affair involving costumed dancers, a colourful parade, live music, entertainment and the singing of traditional songs. For the thousands of spectators who witness this kaleidoscope of colour and culture over the December and January period or more commonly known as the “Tweede Nuwe Jaar” (translated second New Year) it is something to behold.

For Chevron it is just another example of where we, as a company, can acknowledge and salute the power of Human Energy.

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