Is Gqeberha’s Cape Road set to be renamed Siya Kolisi Road?

A proposal was recently submitted to the Eastern Cape Geographical Names Council to rename Cape Road in Gqeberha to Siya Kolisi Road, in recognition of the first black captain of the Springboks.

Who proposed the name change?

SABC News reported that The Eastern Cape Geographical Names Council Chairperson Christian Martin has confirmed that the council has received an application for the name change.

Martin said that one of the Springboks’ supporters, Sherwin Jeptha, submitted the application.

Jeptha noted that in isiXhosa culture, Kolisi’s name symbolises love, affection, hope, and good values. According to him, this resonance goes beyond mere sentimentality, serving as a beacon of nation-building and inclusivity as Kolisi’s leadership fostered and still fosters unity among many South Africans, , as reported by Cape Town Today.

Process involved in changing the name

Should Gqeberha’s Cape Road be renamed Siya Kolisi Road, a comprehensive process must be followed. Changing a road’s name, especially such a prominent road, is a complex matter. It is also a costly endeavour – not only for the government but also for individuals.

In this instance, the council will consult with relevant municipalities and hold public hearings before making a decision.

The steps involved in the process include registering the application, notifying the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, and consulting with the MEC of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture. This application will then be presented to the South African Geographical Names Council.

Why Siya Kolisi Road?

The proposal to rename Cape Road to Siya Kolisi Road aims to honour the Springbok captain’s legacy of unity and resilience.

Cape Road serves as a crucial link connecting several metro neighbourhoods to the N2 highway. Historically, Cape Road has played a vital role as the old arterial route between Cape Town and Gqeberha.

Siya Kolisi was born in Zwide, in Gqeberha and he made history as the first black captain of the Springboks.

Kolisi has also shown resilience and success off the rugby field. Through the Kolisi Foundation he has provided opportunities and support to improve the lives of disadvantaged communities, according to The Conversation Africa.

Interestingly, the council also received an application to rename the R75 highway to honour Rassie Erasmus, another prominent figure in South African rugby.