NORTHERN CAPE
At its sitting on 25 August 1997, the Northern Cape Provincial
Legislature approved the provincial coat-of-arms that has been developed by
the Directorate - Arts and Culture in the province.
The diamond shape in the shield represents the mineral wealth and
economic well-being of the province, with the yellow daises representing the
sun and ecological heritage. The red background stands for the soil with
the thorn tree being an image of growth and development whilst the blue
waves depicts the life-giving vein of the two great rivers which join and
flow to the Northern Cape coast. Other elements include the kudu and
gemsbok supporters and the coronet, which is based on San/Bushman beadwork
headgear, and which is representative of the unique cultural heritage of the
area.
The motto, sa k//za: !a_si zu_si is in the Auni language of a clan of
San/Bushman people who live at Rietfontein in the Kalahari desert and was
provided by Mrs. Elsie Vaalbooi. Mrs. Vaalbooi is 97 years old and is the
last Auni speaker alive. Translated, the meaning of the motto is "Strive
for a Better Life".
Literature : - Information and picture provided by Bruce Berry.
coats of arms on-line ! 
