The Northern Cape Department of Sport, Arts and Culture on Saturday unveiled the tombstone of Elsie Vaalbooi who played a role in the preservation and promotion of the N|uu language, in Rietfontein, Northern Cape. The unveiling forms part of Heritage Month celebrations currently taking part around the country.
Vaalbooi was the first person to resurface as a fluent speaker of the N|uu language which was declared extinct during 1973.
“She played fundamental role in developing the language that was on the verge of dying in the Northern Cape. As part of heritage celebration, we are remembering her role in preserving the language,” says MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture Berenice Sinxebe.
Family member of Elsie, Petrus Vaalbooi says the family is very happy.
“The event means a lot to me and I see that my family is very happy. We are very thankful for what the government is doing for us.”
