East London Renamed: City to Become KuGompo City | South Africa

EAST LONDON – East London is set to undergo a significant name change, officially becoming KuGompo City. The decision, greenlit by the South African Department of Arts and Culture, marks a further step in a broader national effort to reshape the country’s geographical nomenclature and address historical legacies.

The renaming is rooted in the city’s history, drawing from the sound of waves crashing against Gompo Rock – now known as Cove’s Rock – a site of deep cultural significance for the amaXhosa people. According to historical accounts, the area served as a gathering place for amaXhosa Kings for important meetings and ceremonies dating back to the 1800s. The name ‘KuGompo’ itself is derived from this auditory experience, representing a connection to the land’s indigenous heritage.

The move is part of a larger initiative that has seen 21 geographical name changes approved across South Africa, encompassing towns in both the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Graaff-Reinet will also be renamed, becoming Robert Sobukwe Town, a tribute to the anti-apartheid activist. Other towns in the Eastern Cape receiving new names include Aberdeen, now Xamdeboo. Adendorp, renamed KwaMseki Bishop Limba; and Nieu-Bethesda, becoming Kwa Noheleni.

The process leading to the name change for East London involved public consultation led by the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, with meetings held in Qonce, Mdantsane, and surrounding coastal areas during March and April 2025. This engagement aimed to ensure community involvement in a decision with profound cultural and symbolic weight.

The selection of ‘KuGompo’ wasn’t without its complexities. An earlier attempt to adopt the name was stalled due to its prior use for a township. This obstacle was overcome by appending “City” to the name, effectively distinguishing the metropolitan area from the existing township. The Eastern Cape government had signaled its prioritization of renaming East London as early as 2024, underscoring the long-term commitment to this process.

However, the decision has not been universally welcomed. While proponents emphasize the importance of decolonizing place names and reclaiming indigenous heritage, critics have questioned the necessity of the change and raised concerns about the associated costs. A debate has also emerged regarding alternative names, with some advocating for ‘eMonti,’ a name that has gained informal usage over the years.

Historian Dr. JJ Klaas, speaking to EWN, argued that the name change is not merely symbolic but represents a deeper reckoning with history. He pointed out that East London was named in 1847 by Major General Harry Smith to signify the permanent British presence in Southern Africa. “Having that name change is not just a name change, This proves something far deeper,” Dr. Klaas stated. He further cautioned against dismissing the change as a waste of money, emphasizing a lack of understanding of the historical context.

Conversely, Dr. Klaas expressed reservations about ‘eMonti,’ explaining that the name lacks genuine roots in isiXhosa. He traced its origins to a mispronunciation of ‘mouth’ or ‘mond’ (in Afrikaans) by early settlers referring to the Buffalo River mouth, deeming it a name devoid of inherent meaning.

The renaming of East London and Graaff-Reinet, alongside the other approved changes, reflects a broader trend in South Africa towards heritage reform and the dismantling of colonial-era symbols. This process, while intended to foster inclusivity and acknowledge the country’s diverse cultural landscape, continues to generate debate and underscores the complexities of navigating a shared history.

The official gazetting of the new names is the final step before they become legally recognized. Once formalized, KuGompo City will join a growing list of South African cities and towns embracing names that reflect the nation’s indigenous languages and heritage. The change is expected to have implications for local identity, tourism, and the ongoing dialogue surrounding South Africa’s post-apartheid transformation.

The debate surrounding the renaming highlights the challenges inherent in reconciling historical grievances with contemporary realities. While the move is intended to honor the amaXhosa people and their connection to the land, it also raises questions about the practical implications of such changes and the importance of inclusive dialogue in shaping a shared national identity. The renaming of East London to KuGompo City is not simply a change of name; it is a symbolic act with far-reaching cultural and political significance.