by Marion Kate

On 1 November 2025, the Embassy of Egypt in Pretoria, in partnership with the University of South Africa (UNISA), hosted a live screening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) launch at the Z.K. Matthews Great Hall. The event drew an audience of diplomats, academics, and culture enthusiasts eager to witness one of the most significant cultural inaugurations of the century.

The keynote address was delivered by H.E. Alvin Botes, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, who commended Egypt’s vision and dedication in bringing the GEM to life. He described the project as “a monumental achievement for Africa and humanity, a bridge connecting our shared past to our collective future.” Among the distinguished guests were Dr Naledi Pandor, former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, and members of the diplomatic community, whose presence reflected the strength of Egypt and South Africa relations and the unifying power of cultural heritage.

First announced in 1992, the Grand Egyptian Museum has been more than three decades in the making. Construction began in 2005, and after years of meticulous design, archaeological preservation, and international collaboration, the project reached completion in 2023 at an estimated cost of 1 billion US dollars. Standing proudly near the Pyramids of Giza, the GEM is now the largest archaeological museum in the world, housing over 100,000 artefacts that chronicle Egypt’s civilisation from prehistory through the Greco Roman era. Remarkably, around 20,000 items are being displayed to the public for the very first time.

One of the museum’s most breathtaking highlights is the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures, the first time in history that all 5,400 artefacts discovered in the young pharaoh’s tomb will be exhibited together. From his iconic golden mask to chariots, jewellery, and personal belongings, the collection offers an intimate glimpse into the opulence and mystique of ancient Egyptian royalty.

The live broadcast from Cairo was a cinematic spectacle, filled with music, art, and global stars. A defining moment came when legendary actress Sherihan returned to the stage after years of absence, greeted by thunderous applause. Her performance encapsulated the spirit of renewal that the GEM represents, a rebirth of history and culture on a grand scale.

As the audience in Pretoria watched in awe, it was clear that history was not only remembered, it was reborn. The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as a testament to Egypt’s enduring legacy and Africa’s ever unfolding story of greatness.