As South Africa marks National Archives Week from 5–9 May 2025, we are invited to reflect on the theme “Digital Footprints: Archives and Records Management in the Digital Era.” This year’s theme highlights how digital platforms and technologies have transformed the way we preserve, access, and engage with our shared heritage. It also reminds us that in the age of information, preserving authenticity and context is more crucial than ever.
The Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA) digital repository is an example of innovation in digital archiving. This repository has become an essential tool in safeguarding the stories, research, and experiences of South Africa’s long-standing involvement in the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic regions. Beyond showcasing scientific expeditions and personal narratives, ALSA also houses historically rich materials such as official documents, photographs, maps, and even newspaper articles dating back to 1899. These resources not only reflect the nation’s polar heritage but also intersect with South Africa’s broader archival record, including items drawn from national archives.
ALSA repository exemplifies how digital platforms can preserve legacies for generations to come. It ensures that students, researchers, policy-makers, and the public can access curated historical content with ease. The project also embodies the collaborative spirit of archives—drawing from public institutions, private collections, and individual contributions to build a vibrant, accessible historical record.
As we celebrate National Archives Week, let us acknowledge the evolving role of archives in the digital era. Through initiatives like ALSA, we are not only preserving our past but actively shaping the memory of the future. Our digital footprints, when managed with care and vision, can become the building blocks of a collective legacy that endures.
Contact riaolivier@sun.ac.za if you need more information.