SOUTH Africa’s First Nation has reason to celebrate this Heritage month.
The first Kouga Khoisan Council has been established, bringing together three tribal houses and giving a voice to the descendants of the region’s oldest inhabitants.
Kouga Speaker, Hattingh Bornman, said the municipality was honoured that it could facilitate the establishment of the first Kouga Khoisan Council.
“The Kouga region is known for its wealth of Khoisan heritage. The structure will not only help us to preserve and create awareness of that legacy but will also ensure that South Africa’s First Nation has a voice in the development of the region.”
He said the Kouga Khoisan Council consisted of six representatives from three tribal houses – the Korona Links Royal House (!Ora/ona di //Arekamã//eis #Nusasib !xu //ub), the Gam/Inqua Tribal House and the Gamtouer Tribal House.
“Each house is represented on the structure by their local chief and a headman.”
He said the representatives had unanimously agreed that Chief Michael Williams of the Gamtouer Tribal House would serve as the first chairperson.
The position will be rotated every two years.
Williams thanked the Kouga Speaker for recognising and supporting the important role traditional houses had to play in the development of the region.
“Kouga is a special place because of its Khoisan roots.
“There is value in celebrating and preserving that heritage, not only to the benefit of those descended from the First Nation but also for everyone who has made Kouga their home.”
