African Cultural Identity Movement launched in Free State

A new political movement, the African Cultural Identity Movement (ACIM), has officially been launched in Botshabelo in the Free State.

ACIM spokesperson Thato Khoathela says it was formed to address challenges facing African communities, with a key focus on restoring African identity and culture.

Khoathela says ACIM wants Africans to play a greater role in government and contribute to the advancement of their communities.

He says the organisation will also focus on cultural preservation, economic empowerment and accountable government.

“The reason the ACIM was formed is primarily because of the challenges that we’re facing, but most fundamentally is the problem that we have discovered: as Africans, we have lost our identity. Hence, the name speaks for itself. And we are hoping to restore the African identity to the sons and daughters of Africa. Again, it’s not only about the preservation of our cultural or occasional system. Further is the question of taking part as Africans who are advancing Africanism, taking part in government.”

PICTURES | The launch of the African Cultural Identity Movement, a newly formed party set to contest in the upcoming Local Government Elections in November, is under way in Botshabelo in the Free State. Credit: Kamogelo Seekoei pic.twitter.com/hvfRIwNMLk

— SABC News (@SABCNews) September 5, 2026