An analysis of the impact of section 4(2)(b) of the South African Use of Official Languages Act of 2012 (on previously marginalised indigenous official languages)

Abstract This article focuses on the application of chapter 4(2)(b) of the Use of Official Languages Act (UOLA), 2012. The UOLA was passed to correct the past linguistic imbalances by implementing the provisions of Section 6 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 for the official status of the indigenous languages. Chapter 4(2)(b) pertains to the selection of official languages of the Republic of South Africa to ensure they are used in official documents in government departments. The research question is whether the Act positively or negatively impacted the use of previously marginalised languages. The study uses the mixed methods approach. The data were gathered from the language policies of about 41 national government departments. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Data analysis revealed that the status quo has been retained in Afrikaans and English. There is only minimal change observed, as they were treated equally in the previous regime. Previously marginalised African languages still do not find room in the current regime, which leaves them lower in the pecking order in the selection as official languages in departments. The study made some recommendations which can assist the previously marginalised languages to enjoy their official status.