Here we go again with more name changes mooted for parts of the Eastern Cape.
Geographical name changes can result in frayed tempers as some argue that it is a waste of money, while others say it is pointless and bad for tourism. But the truth of the matter is that geographical name changes must be viewed in the context of the broader SA transformation agenda — a necessary process for a nation to heal.
With that in mind, the Eastern Cape Geographical Names Committee has received proposals for, among others, Algoa Bay to be renamed Nelson Mandela Bay, for Colchester to be renamed Nukukamma and Cradock’s name to be changed to either eNxuba or Kaladokhwe.
If the last name change process has taught Bay residents anything, it is that it is important to participate in the process by attending the meetings, lodging objections if you feel strongly that the current names should not be changed, and putting forward a compelling argument.
Provincial Geographical Names Committee chair Zukile Jodwana said the argument put forward to change Algoa Bay to Nelson Mandela Bay was that at present the latter did not geographically exist.
“A bay is a geographical feature and the name registered is Algoa Bay. People refer to Nelson Mandela Bay, but this is incorrect and is widely used by people in marketing,” Jodwana said.
He said it was important for the public to be aware that the name change process was under way.
“In our experience, people tend to ignore this until it’s too late and then think they can still object but it is too late.
“The challenge we face is that many people don’t take this seriously. They wait for the pronouncement of name changes and then they want to object,” Jodwana said.
Though it is unlikely that the change from Algoa Bay to Nelson Mandela Bay will receive much objection — as it carries the name of the municipality — there is once again an opportunity for residents to be active citizens and participate in the government processes.
Do not lodge your objections on social media platforms or think that merely signing a petition is enough, as history has taught us that petitions do not carry weight.
Take the time to write and send your comments to the relevant bodies and motivate why your argument should sway those who make the final decisions.
HeraldLIVE