Legislation · Plain Language
Use of Official Languages Act, 2012.
A short, readable guide to Act No. 12 of 2012 — what it is, why it matters, and what national institutions are required to do.
What is it?
The Use of Official Languages Act, 2012 (Act No. 12 of 2012) gives effect to Section 6(4) of the Constitution by requiring national government to regulate and monitor how the official languages of South Africa are used for government purposes.
Why it matters
South Africa recognises 12 official languages, including South African Sign Language. The Act protects parity of esteem — no language may be treated as more important than another — and guarantees citizens the right to engage government in a language they understand.
In practice
We help institutions turn the Act into workable policy — and into everyday practice.
From drafting a compliant language policy to establishing a National Language Unit and embedding South African Sign Language access, Enable Consultancy walks with public and private institutions through the full implementation journey.