Khoisan

Khoisan is a term used in anthropology and linguistics to refer to certain indigenous peoples of southern Africa and the languages they speak. It traditionally includes the San, hunter-gatherers often called Bushmen, and the Khoikhoi, pastoralists. The label is controversial: some scholars view it as an outdated umbrella term, while others use it to describe a family of related languages with distinctive click consonants.

Geography and people: Khoisan communities are found across parts of Namibia, Botswana, Angola, and South Africa, with smaller populations in neighboring regions. The groups are diverse in culture and language, and today many communities face social and economic marginalization, land-rights disputes, and pressures from larger national populations.

Language and culture: Khoisan languages are notable for their extensive use of click consonants and a wide variety of phonetic systems. The linguistic classification of Khoisan is complex and has undergone revisions, with subgroups often identified as Khoikhoi (Khoe) and various San languages. Traditional Khoisan cultures have emphasized foraging or herding, complemented by rich traditions of rock art, music, beadwork, and extensive knowledge of local flora and fauna. Many languages are endangered, with only a fraction of speakers remaining, often concentrated in older generations.

Contemporary status: There are ongoing efforts to document and preserve Khoisan languages and to secure land rights and cultural heritage for Khoisan communities. Some languages receive formal recognition or schooling in community programs, but language endangerment, migration, and socio-economic challenges continue to threaten linguistic and cultural diversity.