The South African Museums Association

The South African Museums Association is a non-profit professional association which aims to promote museums, museology and the museum profession in South Africa. It strives to protect, manage and create awareness of the cultural and natural heritage of all South Africans.

SAMA endeavours to:

  • Develop museum resources for the enrichment and education of the general public
  • Develop the capacity and effectiveness of the museum profession in South Africa
  • Develop ethical and sustainable museum and heritage practices in South Africa
  • Address critical issues relating to the museum and heritage sector in South Africa

The main goals of SAMA are:

  • Promote the creation and dissemination of knowledge in the field of museology
  • Further develop training, skills and museum expertise
  • Increase the effectiveness and efficiency of museums
  • Promote the extensive use of museums
  • Facilitate communication and co-operation between members of the Association
  • Promote co-operation with bodies with related interests and with public organisations
  • Promote and safeguard the interests of members of the museum profession
  • Recognise the inequities of the past and promote parity