A yearlong investigation by the South African Human Rights Commission (HRC) into
human rights violations against the Khomani San in South Africa has implicated
local authorities and the South African government. The report called for the
prosecution of two police officers accused of murdering Optel Rooi, a master
tracker and community leader, in January 2004. The report also revealed that
local authorities misappropriate funding allocated to provide the 700 Khomani
San community members with basic services such as water, sanitation, and waste
management. The HRC found that children suffer from abuse and discrimination
in schools.
The report suggests several solutions to the problems the Khomani San face, including the establishment of a circuit court, focus on land management, and increased monitoring of education programs. The South African San Institute is pleased with the efforts of the HRC, but asserts that change depends on the commitment of local authorities to solving problems in the community.
