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Derby, South Africa facts for kids

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Derby
R509 through Derby.jpg
Derby is located in North West (South African province)
Derby
Derby
Location in North West (South African province)
Derby is located in South Africa
Derby
Derby
Location in South Africa
Country South Africa
Province North West
District Bojanala Platinum
Municipality Kgetlengrivier
Area
 • Total 1.78 km2 (0.69 sq mi)
Population
 (2011)
 • Total 3,471
 • Density 1,950/km2 (5,050/sq mi)
Racial makeup (2011)
 • Black African 85.1%
 • Coloured 0.7%
 • Indian/Asian 1.4%
 • White 12.8%
First languages (2011)
 • Tswana 76.3%
 • Afrikaans 13.7%
 • English 4.0%
 • Zulu 1.5%
 • Other 4.5%
Time zone UTC+2 (SAST)
PO box
0347
Area code 014

Derby is a small town located in the North West Province of South Africa. It was named after Lord Derby, who was an important British government official. The town started as a safe place for people who needed help and a new beginning.

Discovering Derby

Derby is a small community in South Africa. It is about 117 kilometers west of Johannesburg, a major city. It is also 60 kilometers southwest of Rustenburg and 17 kilometers east of Koster.

How Derby Got Its Name

The town of Derby was named in honor of Lord Derby. He was a British Secretary of State, which means he held a very important position in the British government. Naming the town after him was a way to recognize his influence or connection.

A Place for New Beginnings

Derby was first established on parts of two farms, Rietfontein and Vlakfontein. It was created to be a place where people who had lost everything could find refuge. This means it offered a safe haven and a chance to start over for those in need.

People and Languages

Derby is home to about 3,471 people, based on the 2011 census. Most of the people living here are Black African, making up about 85% of the population. There are also smaller groups of White, Indian/Asian, and Coloured people.

What Languages Are Spoken?

Many different languages are spoken in Derby. The most common language is Tswana, spoken by over 76% of the residents. Other languages include Afrikaans, English, and Zulu. This mix of languages shows the diverse culture of the town.

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