Swartwater Development Project

Between 1925 and 1927, the discovery of diamonds in the Richtersveld drastically altered the fate of the indigenous Nama people. Facing relentless land dispossession and forced removals, the Nama community was uprooted from their ancestral lands, severing their connection to a way of life deeply intertwined with the land. This historical injustice inflicted not only material loss but also a profound erosion of dignity and identity- an impact that continues to resonate within Nama society today. The Swartwater Development Project was in a form of a play which emerged as a compelling theatrical narrative aimed at reimagining the profound loss and displacement endured by the Nama indigenous people during the colonisation era and the discovery of diamonds in the Richtersveld. By intricately weaving together historical events and personal experiences, the play endeavoured to illuminate the harrowing journey of a Nama family compelled to leave Swartwater and confront the ensuing losses. Through the lens of the protagonist, Tieles, audiences were invited to embark on a poignant exploration of the tumultuous period of loss and displacement faced by the Nama community. The primary aim of this project was to craft a compelling and emotive theatrical production that achieved several key objectives like raising awareness regarding the loss and displacement endured by the Nama people during the colonisation and diamond discoveries in the Richtersveld. Highlighting the imperative of preserving cultural identity and heritage amidst historical upheavals was also one of the objectives achieved from the display of the project. Creating avenues for emerging Nama artists and performers to hone their craft and showcase their talents, through the project, this was materialised whilst employment opportunities were extended to 44 artists from the Northern Cape region, with a particular focus on empowering artists within the Richtersveld community.   Government funding plays a crucial role in the Swartwater Project play development project by providing the financial resources necessary to bring this powerful theatrical narrative to life. As a production that sheds light on the historical displacement and loss endured by the Nama people, government support was instrumental in ensuring that this story was researched, developed, and staged with the depth and authenticity it deserved. By investing in the Swartwater Project, the PESP Funding not only supported the arts but also took an active role in addressing historical injustices and promoting social healing. The project aligned with national objectives of reconciliation, heritage preservation, and economic empowerment within the creative sector.