The soundtrack from the historic Rivonia trial, that includes Nelson Mandela’s famous speech from the dock, will be digitised in a R3,2 million operation by French specialists.

French Ambassador Elizabeth Barbier calls it a highlight of bilateral cultural cooperation.

France is picking up the tab for the operation that will eventually include 10 000 dictabelts recorded for four years from 1960.

Tonight two South African officials are taking 284 belts to Paris.

National Archives director general Vuyo Jack says they’ll be guarding them with their lives.

The dictabelts are fragile and can no longer be accessed. Once digitised though the material will be available safely and easily for historians, film makers and researchers worldwide.

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