Eastern Cape towns face colonial-era name changes

PORT ALFRED

The Eastern Cape Geographical Names Committee is proposing indigenous name changes for Port Alfred, Alexandria and the Kowie River to replace colonial-era labels, sparking public debate.

A planning meeting in Port Alfred last week drew over 250 stakeholders to discuss renaming the three places. The committee aims to restore original indigenous names altered during colonial times and reverse cultural erasure.

Officials propose renaming Port Alfred to either iCawa or iCoyi, changing the Kowie River to iQoyi, and renaming Alexandria to either Nkosi Chungwa or eMnyameni.

The proposals face opposition from residents, business owners and tourism operators. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has formally objected, asking Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie to halt the process.

The DA stated: “Renaming Port Alfred, which is an international tourism hub, and Alexandria would deal a devastating blow to the tourism brand and economy of these towns” (as per BusinessTech report).

No final decision has been made as consultation processes continue. The renaming proposals remain subject to public feedback and ministerial approval.