Renaming geographical entities and its effects: A case of Limpopo

Abstract

In today’s world, the only thing that is constant is change. People, governments, leaders, laws, ideas and indeed everything else is ever changing. Great care should, however, be taken as to what, how and why things should be changed. This article looks at the renaming of geographical entities, especially after the advent of democracy in South Africa. The article is necessitated by the fact that such changes affect the community profoundly with regard to their emotions, finances and culture, among others. The effects of change, such as fear, excitement, negative attitudes and resistance, are likely to stay with the affected community for some time, and can cause instability within the community. For instance, resistance is evident in Limpopo with the proposed renaming of Tzaneen, and in Durban, where certain community members feel aggrieved by the proposed renaming of some streets. Against this backdrop, the article will attempt to propose ways in which the changing of geographical entities can be undertaken in future so as to avoid unnecessary conflict in the country. Although reference will be made to other provinces and places, emphasis will be placed on Limpopo.

S.Afr.J.Afr.Lang.,2007, 4