Approximately 500 teachers, learners, writers and publishers from across the Metropole braved the wet weather to attend the literature exhibition, which forms part of the IsiXhosa Awareness Week at O.R Tambo hall.

13 Publishers took part in this exhibition, which saw more than 500 books by South African Authors on display. In line with the objectives of promoting previously marginalized languages, a large percentage of books on display were in IsiXhosa. As part of the exhibition, a tribute was also paid to Best Time authors who won awards for their outstanding contributions in IsiXhosa, English and Afrikaans literature.

Literature of acclaimed South African writes on display included that of Dr Magona, BB Mkonto, Dalene Mathee, Marlene Van Niekerk, Antjie Krog, Alan Paton, Peter T. Mtuze and EKM Dido. Nine High Schools were invited to attend this event where they had a priviledge of being motivated by South African Xhosa writers who presented to the audience the importance of embracing ones mother tongue and stressed the need to read and write. In so doing ensuring continuity of isiXhosa as a language as well as the culture and heritage of the Xhosa nation.

To commemorate June 16 Anniversary, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport consciously decided to coincide this Awareness campaign with Youth Month. Schools and the communities are invited to view the exhibition at O.R. Tambo Hall in Khayeltitsha until Friday, 17 June 2005.

Another similar events are planned for June 16 at Legacy Hall, Khayamnandi, Stellenbosch and June 17 at Groendal Hall, Franschoek. The aim of these events called Siyazingca NgesiXhosa (We are proud of isiXhosa), is to highlight the significance of the Xhosa culture and sensitizing the youth about language diversity. The events will showcase Xhosa culture through music, dance, poetry, drama, clothes, food etc.

For further media enquiries please Mandla Yeki at 021 483 9804 / 082 5533 477