By Emily Setona
BLOEMFONTEIN – The centenary celebration of Afrikaans at the War Museum of the Boer Republics on 9 May brought together government officials, cultural leaders and residents in a renewed call for unity, inclusion and the protection of South Africa’s linguistic heritage.
Held at the historic Bloemfontein museum, the event reflected on the complex history of Afrikaans while recognising its place in a democratic and multicultural South Africa.
Speaking on behalf of Free State MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Head of Department Dr Masego Tshabalala said the celebration acknowledged Afrikaans as an important part of the country’s diverse identity.
“This celebration recognises the history and contribution of Afrikaans as part of South Africa’s diverse culture, and the need to respect and protect all languages and cultures,” said Tshabalala.
She said the event coincided with the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s Constitution, which promotes equality, dignity, unity and the protection of all official languages and cultural heritage.
Tshabalala also highlighted the significance of the museum, describing it as the only museum in the world fully dedicated to the South African War of 1899 to 1902.
She said the museum presents history without glorifying war and honours the suffering endured by black and white women and children in concentration camps.
“At least 24 000 black women and children and 27 000 white women and children died in the camps. Eighty percent were children under 16,” she said.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie described Afrikaans as a language born in South Africa that belongs to all its people.
“Afrikaans does not belong to white people. It belongs to everyone who chooses to speak it,” said McKenzie.
He also urged South Africans living abroad to return home.
“This is your land. It belongs to every coloured child and every African child,” he said.
Eugene White of the Free State Griqua Council welcomed continued recognition of Afrikaans within constitutional and provincial language structures.
“I’m glad this language is not forgotten and remains recognised in the Constitution and provincial language bodies,” said White.
Attendee Mariekie Gericke, 66, praised the minister’s message of inclusion and belonging.
“I’m happy about the message that everybody is welcome in South Africa,” she said.
The celebration ended with renewed calls for social cohesion, cultural preservation and continued dialogue on the shared future of Afrikaans in democratic South Africa.
