Khoi

The Khoi, also known as the Khoikhoi, are an indigenous ethnic group of Southern Africa. The name derives from the Khoekhoe language and is often translated in historical sources as “real people” or simply “people.” They are part of the broader Khoisan language and cultural complex and traditionally speak Khoekhoe languages, which feature click consonants and are related to other Khoisan languages.

Geographically, the Khoikhoi historically occupied areas of the western Cape, the Karoo, and parts of what is now Namibia. Today their descendants are primarily found in South Africa’s Northern Cape, Western Cape, and Eastern Cape provinces, with communities in Namibia and smaller groups in neighboring countries.

Economy and social organization have traditionally centered on pastoralism. The Khoikhoi were herders of cattle and sheep and lived in small, family-based or clan-based settlements. They maintained social networks, practiced beadwork and crafts, and had complex trade and marriage practices that linked them with neighboring groups.

Language plays a crucial role in Khoikhoi identity. They speak Khoekhoe languages, a branch of the Khoisan language family. These languages use click sounds and have faced pressures from dominant regional languages, though efforts at preservation and revival continue.

History since European contact has been marked by dramatic disruption. Beginning in the 17th century, Dutch and other colonial settlers brought diseases, land dispossession, and warfare, which severely affected Khoikhoi populations and their autonomy. Over time, many Khoikhoi integrated into settler economies or were displaced from their traditional territories. In contemporary South Africa and Namibia, the Khoikhoi are recognized as a distinct heritage group, with ongoing cultural and linguistic preservation efforts.