South Africa

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South Africa, formally known as the Republic of South Africa, is a country located at the extreme southern end of the continent of Africa. It has a coastline on both the Atlantic and Indian oceans.

South Africa has a diverse population of more than 62 million, with 12 official languages. English is considered the official language.

South Africa was colonized by the Dutch and by the English, so there is a minority of European origin.

The 80 percent black African majority includes the Zulus at 24 percent and the Xhosas at 16 percent.

Constitutional protection for traditional culture

It has been thought necessary to provide Constitutional protection for the traditional culture that coexists with contemporary culture. Article 30 & 31 of the Constitution of South Africa (1996), found in Chapter 2 (Bill of Rights), provide special protection for traditional rights. Section 30 provides that "everyone has the right to use the language and to participate in the cultural life of their choice,…". Section 31 provides protection for "cultural, religious and linguistic communities".

Participation in traditional circumcision is protected by these rights, so government is limited in what it can do to lessen the mutilation caused by traditional circumcision, also known as ulwaluko.

The provincial legislature of Eastern Cape Province has enacted the Application of Health Standards in Traditional Circumcision Act.

External links

• Wikipedia article: South Africa