Home Affairs of South Africa and the Minister of Home Affairs and immigration
of Namibia regarding the transfer of records relating to persons who were born,
married or who died in Namibia
30 October 2007
As part of the programme of the state visit by the President of South
Africa, the Minister of Home Affairs, Ms Mapisa-Nqakula, signed an agreement
with her counterpart relating to the transfer of records to Namibia. As the
agreement became effective upon signature, immediately following the signing
ceremony the President of South Africa handed over a book of records to the
President of Namibia.
Although records were previously handed over in 2000 and 2004, during 2005
the Minister of Home Affairs and Immigration of Namibia indicated that there
were further records remaining in South Africa. It was established that these
were:
* marriage records from early 1930s to the 1970s
* birth, marriage and death records from 1972 to 1978
* records of marriages in Walvis Bay from after independence in 1990 but before
integration into Namibia in 1994.
In terms of the agreement entered into between the two countries South
Africa agreed to search for, and transfer the remaining records. Records remain
confidential and South Africa has made copies of all documents. Although the
originals are now in Namibia, South Africa will be able to have access to the
records when necessary.
More than 20 000 records were drawn from South African archives, 3 452
records were for births, 2 799 were for marriages and 14 873 were for deaths.
Although the handing over of the records marks the closing of a chapter in the
history of both countries, the excellent co-operation between officials in
concluding and implementing the agreement, as well as the recent opening of two
new border posts in tourist areas bodes well for future projects relating to
immigration and civic services.
Enquiries:
Cleo Mosana
Tel: 012 810 8942
Fax: 012 810 7312
Cell: 082 902 8796
Issued by: Department of Home Affairs
30 October 2007
