We are residents of the town of Jane Furse, a place that holds an emotional historical significance for us and many others in the surrounding villages. The name, Jane Furse Mmashadi, is not just a label; it's our identity, our heritage. It's deeply ingrained in our hearts and minds. Recently there has been a proposal to change this name that we hold so dear, to Kgoshi Mampuru II.

‘Jane Furse’ takes its name after the local hospital founded as a memorial to Jane Diana Furse who died of scarlet fever in 1918. The legacy of the hospital is that it literally birthed the name of this small town it is located in together with its population and also populations from surrounding and far-flung villages. Furthermore, Jane Furse's father Bishop Michael Furse and his missionary colleagues were also responsible for the construction of the St Rita's Hospital which is a sister hospital to Jane Furse memorial hospital. Therefore, the legacy attached to this name continues to inspire us today, reminding us of the selfless service towards humanity. Changing this name would erase this significant part of our history.

Moreover, according to a study by Place Science Research Institute on place-naming practices worldwide, changing names can lead to confusion and disorientation among residents (source: Place Science Research Institute). The proposed name change could potentially disrupt community cohesion in Jane Furse and cause irreversible damage to the socio-economic fabric that runs through the interwoven communities that make up this thriving town.

We are proud of our history, and we want future generations to know about it too. We believe that preserving the name 'Jane Furse' is integral for maintaining our cultural heritage.

Therefore, we urge you not only as residents but as custodians of history - let's stand together against this proposed name change to Kgoshi Mampuru II.

 Let's preserve the historical significance attached with 'Jane Furse'. Please sign this petition if you agree with us.