National Archives and Records Service of South Africa

The National Archives and Records Service of South Africa was established by promulgation of the National Archives and Records Service of South Africa Act (Act No. 43 of 1996, as amended). This piece of legislation transformed the former State Archives Service into a National Archives and Records Service whose mission, functions and structures reflect the South African democratic political order and imperatives. In essence, the mission of the National Archives and Records Service is to foster a national identity and the protection of rights: by preserving a national archival heritage for use by the government and people of South Africa; and by promoting efficient, accountable and transparent government through the proper management and care of government records.