This pledge marks a significant step towards resolving their longstanding issues.
The Minister was speaking at the three-day national convention of Khoisan leaders held at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni, East Johannesburg.
The event, attended by representatives from various Khoi and San groups, Members of Parliament, and other key figures, sought to find lasting solutions to challenges such as the community's legal recognition and representation. Hlabisa expressed optimism about the process, noting, “This has been a groundbreaking meeting on a matter of national importance. I have no doubt that together with you standing united, we shall achieve the long overdue recognition of the Khoi-San community within the legal frameworks in our country.”
A primary concern raised by delegates was the issue of leadership representation for the five main Khoi-San groups; San, Griqua, Nama, Koranna, and Cape Khoi. Hlabisa assured the convention that all concerns would be addressed, stating, “I want to assure you that whatever issues have been raised, if not yet addressed, are properly recorded and will be attended to.”
Equally pressing was the matter of equal representation, including the inclusion of women, youth, and people living with disabilities. The Minister highlighted this as a priority, calling the convention “a new dawn for the Khoisan community.”
Dr Zweli Mkhize, Chairperson of the CoGTA Portfolio Committee, hailed the event as a success, commenting, “This convention has exceeded our expectations. It has shown that the Khoi-San community can meet without chaos and with unity.”
However, some delegates expressed dissatisfaction over unresolved issues, threatening legal action. Mkhize warned, “If you take this process to court, you're taking yourselves to court.”
Furthermore, Saintes Van Wyk, a Khoisan member of parliament, emphasised the need for Khoisan recognition in achieving a united SA. “There can never be a united SA if the Khoisan is not recognized as Africans,” he stated.
Chantal Revell, a representative of the Western Cape Khoi-San Council, also spoke out against the oppression of women in these discussions, stressing the need for greater gender equality. She said, “In our history, we always hear about the wars. But who makes war? It’s always the men at the front. We are the peacekeepers, the mothers, the ones who birth nations. Yet, in these high-profile consultative meetings, we are oppressed. We cannot see a future for our country with this neglect of women, sidelined by patriarchal systems that continue after colonialism.”
--ChannelAfrica--
