The Khoi-San people, an ancient ethnic group in South Africa, boast a rich and captivating history, are believed to be the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa. Although commonly referred to as the Khoisan, they are perceived as two distinct groups—the Khoe and the San. In modern times, due to fractured communities, these names have merged, identifying them as a unified group. The San, known for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle, maintained a profound connection with the environment, relying on nature's cues for survival. The Khoekhoe or Khoi people, on the other hand, were pastoralists who primarily kept cattle, goats, and sheep. Despite being the first people in Southern Africa, they face exclusion as an official ethnic group in South Africa. November marks the fifth year since some Khoi-San people initiated a protest at the Union Buildings, where they persist in camping, hopeful that the government will recognise them officially. In this discussion, we’re delving into the history of the Khoi-San people and explore their present-day experiences.

Chairperson of the National Khoi-San Council Cecil Le Fleur joins Lerato Mbele for the conversation.