LETTER TO THE EDITOR | Vuk'uzenzele

Letter

Dear Vuk’uzenzele

I was so encouraged to read the article in the March issue of Vuk’uzenzele, whereby members of the Khoikhoi and San communities have their indigenous names officially recognised.

As an ex-teacher, it reminded me of a poem by Magoleng wa Selepe that I taught my students, which led to many discussions about the dignity of our names, which reflect our identities. Thank you for publishing good news too.

My Name

Nomgqibelo Ncamisile Mnqhibisa

Look what they have done to my name……..

the wonderful name of my great-great-grandmother

Nomgqibelo Ncamisile Mnqhibisa

The burly bureaucrat was surprised

What he heard was music to his ears

‘Wat is daai, se nou weer?’

‘I am from Chief Daluxo Velayigodle of emalu podweni

And my name is Nomgqibelo Ncamisile Mnqhibisa.’

Messia, help me!

My name is simple

And yet so meaningful

But to this man it is trash…..

He gives me a name

Convenient enough to answer his whim…..

I end up being

Maria…..

I…………..

Nomgqibelo Ncamisile Mnqhibisa

Kind regards

Deana Steyn

Reply

Dear Deana,

Thank you so much for your heartfelt letter and for sharing the poignant poem "My Name" by Magoleng wa Selepe. It is truly heartening to hear from our readers, especially when our articles spark such meaningful reflections on our shared history and identity.

Your perspective as an educator adds a special layer of depth to this conversation. The story of the Khoikhoi and San communities reclaiming their indigenous names is indeed "good news," as it represents a vital step in restoring the dignity that Magoleng wa Selepe so eloquently writes about.

As we enter April, we find ourselves in a particularly reflective time. This Freedom Month carries even greater weight as South Africa celebrates 30 years of our Constitution. Your letter serves as a beautiful reminder of why we cherish these constitutional rights—specifically the right to one's culture, language, and the inherent dignity of being recognised for who we truly are.

We value your readership and your commitment to keeping these important discussions alive. It is contributions like yours that help us celebrate how far we have come in three decades of democracy.

Kind regards,

Vuk’uzenzele

Letter

Dear Vuk’uzenzele,

Could you please advise me on how to book an appointment to apply for my Identity Document?

From Mandla Prince

Reply

Dear Mandla,

Thank you for writing to Vuk’uzenzele,

to book an appointment for your Smart ID card, please follow the practical steps below to use the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS). This system allows you to schedule your visit in advance, significantly reducing waiting times.

Steps to book via BABS:

Visit the Website: Go to the Department of Home Affairs website at www.home-affairs.gov.za.
Access BABS: Select the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) link.
Authenticate: Enter your ID number to verify your status.
Enter Details: Fill in your personal information, including your full name and contact details.
Select Location: Choose your preferred province, city, and specific Home Affairs branch.
Schedule: Select an available date and time slot that suits you.
Confirm: Review and confirm your booking. You will receive a notification, which you must present at the branch on the day of your appointment.

Other Available Options:

eHomeAffairs: This online platform is dedicated to Smart ID and passport applications. It also allows you to book appointments at selected partner bank branches. You must first register an account at ehome.dha.gov.za.
Walk-in Service: While booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues, you may still visit Home Affairs offices as a walk-in client for ID and passport services.

Regards

Vuk’uzenzele