First TshiVenda dictionary launched

The launch was the brainchild of the Tshivenda National Lexicography Unit (TNLU) and the Pan South African Language Board's (PanSALB) initiatives to promote multilingualism and the development of marginalised languages in South Africa. Although more than 200 pages of the dictionary have already been authored, a 39-page first draft was handed to the delegates for review, input and suggestions. The final product is expected to hit the market in two years’ time.

The dictionary was also made possible through the joint efforts of representatives of all PanSALB structures, national and provincial legislatures, MECs, scholars and academics, researchers, government officials, civil society, traditional leaders, traditional healers and the business fraternity.

When giving the keynote address and conducting the official launch of the dictionary, the Chairperson of PanSALB, Mr Philemon Skhosana, said it is important to develop the recognition and implementation of multilingualism in South Africa. "We hope the product will empower the previously disadvantaged languages and the lives of all indigenous people of Africa. We must strive for the development of equal use and enjoyment of all languages for the benefit of our future generations. The idea of coming up with a Venda dictionary is a clear indication that the minority languages are also taken into account in this global world," said Skhosana.

The Chairperson of Contralesa in the Vhembe District, Thovhele Kennedy Tshivhase, said it is important for all South Africans to preserve their indigenous languages because language is the basis from which all communication starts. "As Contralesa, we are proud of the Venda dictionary and we hope this will enhance the dignity of our own heritage. We must be proud of our languages, and as traditional leaders, we fully support the use of African languages as mediums of communication within our society…"

A member of the Board of Directors for the Tshivenda dictionary project, Prof Ntshavheni Milubi, told Mirror that the project is a victory for all indigenous people of South Africa because it improves and promotes the use the previously disadvantaged languages. “Language is an important tool for communication and we must preserve it because a nation who does not value its language is doomed…”

News - Date: 30 July 2004

Wilson Dzebu

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