Sekhukhune witnesses House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders’ opening
TAFELKOP – The Limpopo House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (LHTKL) held its opening for the current financial year in Tafelkop at the Bakgaga Ba Kopa Traditional Authority precinct, under Kgoshi Rammpudu Boleu last Thursday.
Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, LHTKL Chairperson Hosi Pheni Ngove, Limpopo MECs for Cooperative Governance and Human Settlements, Basikopo Makamu, Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure, Ernest Rachoene and Social Development, Florence Radzilani joined traditional leaders from across the country and community members during the opening.
Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba addressed the opening of the house which marked a significant milestone for the province.
Premier Dr. Ramathuba said it brought her immense joy to be there that day as that occasion was of particular significance because, for many years, the province has not witnessed a female Premier addressing the house of traditional leadership.
Dr. Ramathuba indicated that in many respects, the event laid the groundwork for a more progressive Limpopo province.
“It is fitting that we open this House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders during Heritage Month, a time when we reflect on the rich tapestry of our diverse cultures. Our traditional and Khoi-San leaders hold a key to preserving this heritage, ensuring that our young people not only learn from it but also carry it forward to future generations,” stated Ramathuba.
She highlighted that the country’s heritage serves as a bridge to the past, offering insights into how the society has evolved.
“It allows us to reflect on our history, embrace our traditions and cultivate a deeper awareness of who we are. More importantly, it helps us understand and appreciate the journey that has shaped us into the people we are today. In previous speeches since I was inaugurated, I have paid tribute to the pioneers who paved the way for my journey in the liberation and empowerment of women. I have celebrated the remarkable leadership of individuals such as Thuli Madonsela, Lillian Ngoyi, Josephine Moshobane, Kgoshigadi Madinoge, Joyce Mabudafhasi and many others,” mentioned Ramathuba.
She also praised the trailblazer in traditional leadership, the visionary Hosi Tinyiko Lwandlamuni Phillia N’wamitwa II.
“This extraordinary woman from our province faced prolonged legal battles initiated by a royal family member who argued against her right to lead due to her gender. Thankfully, the Constitutional Court ruled in her favour, confirming her position as the senior traditional leader, Hosi of the Valoyi (N’wamitwa) people near Tzaneen in the Mopani District,” enlightened Ramathuba.
The premier said that the decision overturned the apartheid-era practice of male primogeniture in traditional leadership succession, a custom deeply entrenched in the Vatsonga/Machangana community. “This historic ruling was not only a victory for Hosi N’wamitwa but also a significant triumph for all women, challenging patriarchal norms and affirming women’s right to leadership,” averred Ramathuba.
