Urgent Call for Implementation of Nama Language Preservation Agreement

Newrene Klaaste, Speaker of the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature, has called for swift action to implement a bilateral agreement between Namibia and South Africa for the preservation of the Nama language. She warns of the risk of extinction without proactive measures and emphasizes the significance of cultural heritage. Klaaste also suggests an exchange program to facilitate knowledge sharing between the two countries’ legislatures.

A South African member of parliament has urgently called for the implementation of a bilateral agreement aimed at preserving the Nama language between Namibia and South Africa. During an address in Windhoek, Newrene Klaaste, Speaker of the Northern Cape Provincial Legislature, emphasized that without decisive action, this language, a key component of cultural heritage, risks extinction.

Klaaste remarked on the necessity to evaluate the progress of existing agreements that encompass education and the preservation of the Nama language. She articulated concerns about the potential loss of the Damara-Nama language, stating, “Our bilateral agreements with Namibia include education and the preservation of the Nama language. It is crucial that we assess the progress of this agreement. The fear we have is that if we do not actively work to preserve the Damara-Nama language, it will eventually disappear.”

These comments were made during a visit from a South African delegation, comprising 19 members of the legislature, their secretary, and 20 officials, who are in Namibia to benchmark legislative practices. The aim of this visit is to learn about oversight, public engagement, legislative processes, and to enhance cooperation between both nations.

Klaaste underscored the importance of cultural heritage, stating, “This is not just about culture; it is about ensuring that future generations inherit their rightful linguistic and historical identity.” She urged that the language agreement must translate into actionable outcomes

The Speaker also addressed the historic injustices endured by Nama-speaking communities in South Africa, who faced displacement during apartheid. She affirmed the necessity of preserving the language as a means of healing and heritage restoration for these communities.

Additionally, Klaaste proposed the implementation of an exchange program between Namibia and South Africa to promote knowledge sharing and strategy development between their respective parliaments.

– Sakeus Ikela, information officer with the National Assembly

In summary, Newrene Klaaste advocates for urgent action towards the implementation of the Nama language preservation agreement between Namibia and South Africa. She highlights the need for tangible outcomes from this agreement to prevent the language from vanishing, stresses the importance of maintaining cultural heritage, and suggests enhancing cooperation through an exchange program. The collaborative efforts between the two nations are vital for the survival of the Nama language and the historical identity of its speakers.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na