A South African MP, Newrene Klaaste, has called for urgent implementation of a bilateral agreement with Namibia to preserve the Nama language, stressing its cultural significance. During a delegation visit to Namibia, she detailed the importance of active efforts and governmental collaboration in ensuring the language’s survival. An exchange program was proposed to facilitate knowledge sharing between the two nations.
A member of the South African Parliament has urged immediate action for the implementation of a bilateral agreement aimed at preserving the Nama language between Namibia and South Africa. Newrene Klaaste emphasized the urgency of this matter during her speech in Windhoek, highlighting the potential disappearance of the language, a crucial element of regional cultural heritage, without dedicated efforts from both nations.
In her address, Klaaste articulated the necessity of assessing the progress of existing bilateral agreements that involve education and language preservation. “If we do not actively work to preserve the Damara-Nama language, it will eventually disappear,” she asserted. Her comments were made during the visit of a high-level South African delegation to Namibia, which includes 19 legislature members and 20 officials.
The delegation’s visit serves as an opportunity for benchmarking best practices within legislative processes such as oversight and public participation. This initiative is intended to enhance operational systems in their legislature while strengthening bilateral ties between South Africa and Namibia.
Klaaste underscored the importance of cultural preservation, asserting, “This is not just about culture; it is about ensuring that future generations inherit their rightful linguistic and historical identity.” She called for active steps to ensure the bilateral agreement translates into meaningful outcomes rather than remaining merely a written commitment.
She also highlighted the historical injustices faced by Nama-speaking communities in South Africa, many of whom have endured displacement during apartheid. Preserving the language, according to Klaaste, plays a crucial role in restoring and maintaining the heritage of these communities. Additionally, she proposed the establishment of an exchange program between the two countries to facilitate knowledge sharing and strategies in legislative practices.
In conclusion, the call to implement the Nama language preservation agreement emphasizes the need for active collaboration between South Africa and Namibia. The effort not only aims to safeguard a vital cultural element but also addresses historical injustices faced by Nama-speaking communities. The proposed exchange program further highlights a commitment to enhance legislative best practices and strengthen bilateral relationships.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
