Honouring heritage: the role of Tshivenḓa address forms in post-apartheid South Africa

This study investigates the perceptions of the Vhavenḓa community regarding the use of indigenous Tshivenḓa address forms in Tshimbupfhe, Limpopo Province, with particular attention to intergenerational transmission and cultural preservation. These forms of address serve as crucial markers of respect, identity, and social cohesion, and their misuse or neglect may contribute to the erosion of cultural dignity and linguistic heritage. The study employed a qualitative research design, collecting data through face-to-face semi-structured interviews with both youth and elder participants. The research was guided by the Afrocentricity theoretical framework, which foregrounds African cultural values and practices in understanding social behaviour. Findings reveal that participants recognise the continued relevance of Tshivenḓa address forms in contemporary democratic South Africa, affirming their role in identity formation and cultural continuity. The study highlights the need for consistent use of these terms across generations and contexts and recommends establishing Tshivenḓa language libraries to support the preservation of cultural knowledge through the archiving of important documents. By examining the usage, significance, and social function of indigenous address forms, this research contributes to sociolinguistics, enhances understanding of Tshivenḓa language practices, and supports efforts to maintain and promote Vhavenḓa cultural heritage.