Urgent Call for Implementation of Nama Language Preservation Agreement

Newrene Klaaste, a South African MP, has urged for urgent action on a bilateral agreement with Namibia to preserve the Nama language, warning of its potential extinction. During a visit to Namibia, she stressed the importance of proactive measures and proposed an exchange program to enhance collaboration between the two nations. Klaaste highlighted the need to address historical injustices faced by Nama-speaking communities and to ensure that the agreement leads to concrete outcomes.

Newrene Klaaste, a member of the South African Parliament, has called for immediate action concerning the implementation of an agreement aimed at preserving the Nama language, which is significant to the cultural heritage of both Namibia and South Africa. During a speech in Windhoek, she emphasized that without proactive measures, the language could face extinction. Klaaste stated, “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.”

As part of a prominent South African delegation in Namibia for a benchmark study visit, which includes 19 members of the legislature and various officials, Klaaste’s remarks highlight the critical nature of this effort. The primary goal of this visit is to explore best practices related to legislative oversight and public participation, to enhance the systems and processes within their own legislature.

Klaaste underscored that the agreement on language preservation should lead to actionable results rather than serving as a mere document. She pointed out the historical injustices suffered by Nama-speaking communities in South Africa and asserted that safeguarding their language is vital to restore their historical and cultural identity.

Furthermore, she suggested establishing an exchange programme between Namibia and South Africa, which would promote knowledge sharing and cooperative strategies between the two parliaments. This initiative aims to foster a relationship based on mutual respect and collaboration, contributing to the preservation of Nama cultural heritage.

Klaaste concluded by reiterating the importance of cultural continuity, stating, “This is not just about culture; it is about ensuring that future generations inherit their rightful linguistic and historical identity.”

In conclusion, Newrene Klaaste’s remarks highlight the urgent need for action in implementing the agreement for preserving the Nama language. Through collaboration and proactive strategies, both Namibia and South Africa can work together to protect this vital aspect of their shared cultural heritage, ensuring its survival for future generations.

In summary, the urgent call by Newrene Klaaste for immediate implementation of the Nama language preservation agreement underscores the critical responsibility both Namibia and South Africa share in safeguarding their cultural heritage. By taking tangible steps to enact this agreement and fostering collaboration through proposed exchange programs, both nations can work towards preserving the linguistic and historical identity of the Nama-speaking communities.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na