Xhosa Festival - Siyazingca ngesiXhosa "We are Proud of isiXhosa"

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport in conjunction with the Western Cape Language Committee will be celebrating isiXhosa language at a Festival to be held at Langa Township outside Cape Town from the 22 - 27 November 2005. The Western Cape Language Committee has decided on Langa Township because Langa was the first Xhosa Township in the Western Cape and has a long history of isiXhosa speakers.

This project will provide participants with basic knowledge and understanding of the Xhosa culture, therefore contributing to the active development of a marginalized language by increasing the understanding and appreciation of such a language amongst interested groups. This project has been initiated in order to instill a sense of pride in the Xhosa speakers and to create a general sense of awareness amongst those who are unfamiliar with the language and culture.

The aim of the festival is to promote, develop and elevate the status of isiXhosa in the Western Cape. The project will be executed to challenge the cultural landscape for all the people of the Western Cape through showcasing isiXhosa culture starting from clothes, dance, food, storytelling and poetry, music, art and indigenous games.

By doing this project the Western Cape Language Committee and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport ensures cohesion and improved relationships. MEC Jacobs and the Premier are expected to officially open the festival on Tuesday, November 22, 2005 at 18h00 where they will both shared some light on provincial government's plan of action to promote marginalized languages.

All media are invited to attend as follows:

Date: 22 November 2005
Time: 17h30 for 18h00
Venue: Langa Multi-purpose Sport Complex