AMAFA, the body responsible for protecting buildings, archaeological and rock art sites is to award people who help preserve this rich heritage.

The sites also include places of historical and cultural significance and the awards ceremony will take place on September 18 in Pietermaritzburg.

"There are people and organisations across the province working with us to protect what has become a major tourist drawcard and what makes KwaZulu-Natal unique in its diversity," said Amafa's deputy director Lindiwe Msomi.

"Seven years ago, we began to present annual awards to recognise these community contributions.

"In the past they have included a Zulu clan protecting their traditions and heritage, a vintage tractor and machinery club, rock art conservators, a group promoting the history of Ladysmith and one restoring Hindu temples," said Msomi.

"Amafa is responsible for the protection of all these cultural and historic resources, from the site outside Howick where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962, to a portion of the old Voortrekker Road outside Maritzburg.

"There are some 260 proclaimed sites and buildings in KwaZulu-Natal. Many thousands more fall under a general protection by being more than 60 years old and owners must ask for our permission for any changes," said Msomi.

Projects must be in KwaZulu-Natal and can include, among others, maintenance and public awareness programmes.

Nominations must be sent by August 28 to Lindiwe Msomi, PO Box 2685, Pietermaritzburg 3200 and delivered to 195 Langalabilele Street, Pietermaritzburg or sent by e-mail to amafa.pmb@mweb.co.za.