The Transformation of South Africa’s Naming Landscape
Dear South Africans,
The South African Geographical Names Council (SAGNC) was established under the South African Geographical Names Act, No. 118 of 1998. Its mandate is to lead the transformation of South Africa’s naming landscape to reflect our country’s languages, cultural heritage, and democratic values.
Many names of our villages, towns, cities, and roads still reflect colonial and apartheid legacies. Provinces such as the Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga have made notable progress in transforming major town and city names. In Gauteng, the recent road name changes include:
Houtkop Road to Duma Nokwe Road
William Nicol…
Cultural Significance: Newspapers remain an essential part of South African
culture, reflecting the country’s diverse voices and stories.

Ladysmith
Now Now – immediately / soon. A confusing phrase for non-locals meaning sometime soon – sooner than just now but quicker than right now.Example: “We’re going to the beach now now!” (But first we have to pack our swimming gear, stop at gas station and maybe get some snacks…).
Maple Destroyer
3. to be injected with the AIDS virus for a slow death.
So the German said, \”Shoot me right in the head.\” Boom, he was dead instantly.
Then the Italian said, \”Just hang me.\” Snap! He was dead.
Then it was Van der Merwe turn , and he said, \”Give me some of that AIDS stuff.\”
They gave him the shot, and Van der Merwe fell down laughing. The guards looked at each other and wondered what was wrong with this guy.
Then Van der Merwe said, \”Give me another one of those shots,\”so the guards did. Now he was laughing so hard, tears rolled from his eyes and he doubled over.
Finally the warden said, \”What\’s wrong with you?\”
Van der Merwe replied, \”You guys are so stupid…..
I\’m wearing a condom.\”