The Department of Home Affairs has begun recognizing Khoisan traditional names on official documents, a move hailed as a significant step toward inclusivity. Minister Leon Schreiber recently handed over the first smart identity document reflecting a Khoisan traditional name to !Khūboab Oedasoua Lawrence, a first-year student at Stellenbosch University.
A Long-Standing Issue Resolved
The need for this upgrade stemmed from a technical limitation within the department’s IT systems. For over 18 years, !Khūboab’s family had been unable to obtain official documents—first a birth certificate, and now an ID—that accurately spelled his first name due to the system’s inability to process “special characters.” Minister Schreiber became aware of the issue a month ago and prioritized a solution.
Within four weeks, the necessary upgrades were implemented, enabling the use of traditional Khoisan names on birth certificates, smart IDs, and passports for the first time in South African history. The department’s technical team remains on standby to address any further adjustments needed for additional “special characters.”
A Moment of Recognition
Minister Schreiber described the handover as “a historic victory for the inclusion, equality and dignity of Khoisan communities.” He emphasized that a name is central to a person’s identity and that this reform demonstrates the benefits of digital transformation.
A circular will be issued to all Home Affairs offices informing them of the upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Department of Home Affairs to make these changes?
The changes were prompted by the case of !Khūboab Oedasoua Lawrence, who was unable to obtain a smart ID due to the system’s inability to process the characters in his traditional Khoisan name. His family faced a similar issue 18 years prior when applying for a birth certificate.
What types of documents will now recognize Khoisan traditional names?
Birth certificates, smart IDs, and passports will now be able to recognize and record Khoisan traditional names.
What is the Department of Home Affairs doing to prepare for future needs?
The department’s technical team is on standby to effect further upgrades if additional “special characters” need to be adjusted.
As the Department of Home Affairs expands its ability to accommodate diverse names, what other steps might be taken to further promote inclusivity and recognize the cultural heritage of all South African communities?
