THE LIMPOPO DSAC HOSTS A REVIEW OF LANGUAGE ACT NO. 7 OF 2000

MOKWAKWAILA | The Limpopo Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) hosted a public review of the Limpopo Language Act No. 7 of 2000, at Mokwakwaila Community Hall on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.

Among those who attended the language review were representatives from schools and creches, the provincial legislature and the DSAC’s Director of Language Services, Mr T. Netshifhefhe. Also in attendance were members of the Language Act Review Panel, represented by Professor A. Mushwana from UNISA and Dr J. Rammala, as well as the Cultural, Religious and Linguistic (CRL) Rights Commission Commissioner, Professor M. Makgopa.

The review seeks to ensure that the legislation remains relevant to the province’s changing linguistic needs and realities, for more than two decades after the Act was enacted.

The Limpopo Language Act No. 7 of 2000 provides for the determination of official languages in the province and regulates their use. It also provides for the development of language policies by provincial departments, municipalities, government entities and the provincial legislature.

According to the department, the review is aimed at strengthening the Act to ensure that it responds to developments in Limpopo’s language landscape.

Among the issues under consideration is the recognition and inclusion of different dialects and regional languages spoken across the province.

The review also considers the inclusion of South African Sign Language, which was not provided for in the 2000 Act. This is intended to ensure that people who use sign language are recognised and accommodated within Limpopo’s language framework.

The department further aims to strengthen the protection, preservation and promotion of all languages spoken in the province.

The review is therefore expected to contribute towards promoting linguistic diversity and inclusivity, while safeguarding Limpopo’s rich linguistic heritage for current and future generations.

Our news reporters, Sinah Phaladi and Tebatso Seshoka covered the story.

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