How Do You Spell PRETORIA-WITWATERSRAND-VEREENIGING?

Pronunciation: [pɹɪtˈɔːɹi͡əwˈɪtwətəsɹˌandvˈɛɹiːnˌa͡ɪd͡ʒɪŋ] (IPA)

The name "Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vereeniging," commonly referred to as PWV, is a mouthful. Its pronunciation is "pʁɛtoʁja vɪtvaːtərsrɑnt fəˈʁiːnəɣəŋ." The hyphens in the name indicate that it is a compound place name, made up of three distinct locations in South Africa: Pretoria, the administrative capital city; Witwatersrand, the region where Johannesburg is located and known for its gold mines; and Vereeniging, a city in the south of Gauteng province, on the border of Free State. The name was used by the South African province from 1994 to 2005.

PRETORIA-WITWATERSRAND-VEREENIGING Meaning and Definition

  1. Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vereeniging (PWV) is a term that refers to a large urban region located in South Africa. It encompasses three major cities in the Gauteng Province of the country, namely Pretoria, Johannesburg, and Vereeniging. The PWV region is characterized by its significance in economic, political, and social aspects.

    Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is known for its governmental institutions, including the Union Buildings and the President's residence. Johannesburg, the economic hub, has a strong presence of industries, businesses, and financial institutions. Vereeniging is an industrial city situated further south, mainly recognized for its manufacturing and steel production activities.

    This tri-city region is iconic for its vast population and diverse cultural heritage. The PWV area is marked by extensive transportation networks, including highways, railways, and international airports, contributing to its accessibility and connectivity. Moreover, it is home to several renowned educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and entertainment venues.

    The Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vereeniging region plays a crucial role in the national economy, generating significant revenue through various sectors such as mining, finance, manufacturing, and services. It is a vibrant metropolitan area with a blend of bustling cities, suburban areas, and rural landscapes. The PWV region attracts people from all walks of life and is recognized as a center of economic opportunity and cultural diversity in South Africa.

Etymology of PRETORIA-WITWATERSRAND-VEREENIGING

The word "Pretoria-Witwatersrand-Vereeniging" is a combination of three place names in South Africa - Pretoria, Witwatersrand, and Vereeniging. Here is the etymology of each component:

1. Pretoria: The name Pretoria comes from the Dutch word "Pretorium", which means the official residence of a governor. It was named after Andries Pretorius, a Boer leader and the founding father of South Africa.

2. Witwatersrand: The term "Witwatersrand" is derived from the Afrikaans words "wit" (white) and "watersrand" (ridge of white waters). It refers to the ridge of white water-rich quartzite that runs east-west through the Gauteng Province of South Africa and is known for its gold deposits. The term gained prominence during the late 19th century when gold mining started in the area.