Northern Cape

Heraldry of the World
Civic heraldry of South Africa

NORTHERN CAPE

Official blazon

Origin/meaning

The arms were granted on 25 August 1997.

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 ||a !aĩsi 'uĩsi 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 was 97 years old at the time and was the last Auni speaker alive. Translated, the meaning of the motto is "Strive for a Better Life".