Western Cape Language Committee

The Western Cape Language Committee (WCLC) was established in 1998 in accordance with the Western Cape Provincial Language Act, Act No 13 of 1998. The committee consists of 11 members.

Appointment of members

The Standing Committee of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament (WCPP) invites the general public to nominate persons to serve as members on the WCLC. In full compliance with the Western Cape Provincial Languages Act (Act no 13 of 1998), the Standing Committee short-lists candidates that meets the requirements and submits them to the Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport for final selection. The demographics and percentage of language speakers are taken into account to ensure a balanced Committee that will be able to deliver on its mandate.

Responsibilities

• Ensuring the equal status of the three official languages of the province. 
• Monitoring the use of the official languages by the provincial government of the Western Cape. 
• Promoting multilingualism.
• Actively promoting the development of previously marginalised indigenous languages, including South African Sign Language (SASL).
• Advising the Minister on language matters.
• Advising the Pan South African Language Board on language matters affecting the Western Cape.

Members

• Ms Genevieve Lentz (Chairperson)
• Dr Gregory Allen Grootboom (Deputy Chairperson)
• Mr Riaan Baartman
• Mr Zukile Jama
• Ms Laurian Lesch
• Mr Micarlo Malan
• Mr Kwanda Mkhize
• Ms Stevlyn Vermeulen
• Dr Esau Willemse
• Ms Vanessa Reyneke.

In terms of section 17 of the Western Cape Provincial Languages Act, 1998, officials in the Language Services component of the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport perform the administrative work of the WCLC. 

Contact details:

E-mail: Gadija.Abdullatief@westerncape.gov.za

Telephone: 021 483 0073

Street Address:3rd Floor, Protea Assurance Building, Greenmarket Square, Cape Town, 8000

Postal Address: Private Bag X9067, Cape Town, 8000

Contact Person: Gadija Abdullatief

Overseeing Government Body: Department of Cultural Affairs & Sport