The Khoi and San communities are calling on government to recognise them as the aboriginal people of Southern Africa.

EWN reports that they are also calling for their traditional laws to be recognised and respected by the government.

Representatives from various indigenous groups yesterday marched to Parliament to hand over a memorandum.

Larry Varrie, from the Greater Aboriginal Community Council of Southern Africa, said that for 31 years, government had failed to uphold the Constitution in respect of the Khoi and San: ‘Part of what we’ve demanded from the government is that they recognise us as the first nation of SA. Other governments have done it, that is still run by white governments in Australia. Why is it that a Parliament with an African majority cannot recognise the first people? Then there’s something wrong with this country.’

As previously reported, the Commission on Khoi-San Matters revealed that it will make an announcement on the outcome of the Khoi and San communities’ application for recognition before the end of its term next year.

The term of office of the commission began on 1 September 2021 and will end on 31 August 2026.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as chairperson of the Presidential Task Team on Matters raised by Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, on Wednesday met with the Representatives of the Griqua Royal House.

The Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act took effect from April 2021.

It makes provision for the statutory recognition of Khoi-San leaders and communities, as well as the establishment of Khoi-San leadership structures.

The Act also provides for the establishment of the Commission on Khoi-San Matters.

Full EWN report