Queenship of Balobedu Restores

By: Maano Nekhavhambe

It was a momentous and historic day at Mokwakwaila Stadium in Balobedu area, on Saturday 07^th April 2018, as thousands of people gathered to witness restoration of the Queenship of the Balobedu.

The government of the Republic of South Africa restored the Queenship of the Balobedu after the centuries old monarch had been demoted to a chieftaincy by the apartheid government in 1972, stripping the then Queen, Makoma Modjadji IV, of her royal stature that put the Balobedu on par with the likes of Kgoshi Sekhukhune.

The celebration was attended by several dignitaries including President Cyril Ramaphosa, former President Jacob Zuma, Limpopo Premier Stanley Chupu Mathabatha, Minister of Co-Operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Dr Zweli Mkhize, VhaVenda King Khosi Khulu Toni Mphephu Ramabulana and the leader of Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane.

The recognition of Queenships in South Africa demonstrates commitment to the principles and values of gender equality as well as the recognition of the leadership role women play in all spheres of life.

“Chieftaincy is important to African people and South Africans. Also, traditional leaders’ role is to make people’s lives better.” said Ramaphosa

Rain Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII made her first public appearance since the death of her mother, Rain Queen Makobo Modjadji, in 2005 and she will be coroneted once she turns 18.

Ramaphosa also confirmed that the government has heard the entreaties of Balobedu people, requesting their language to be recognized and the President has promised that Khelobedu will be added to the list of official languages in South Africa.

“We have heard you and those entrusted with such responsibilities will make it happen and will do it properly. Khelobedu will also receive recognition as an official language in South Africa" he attested.

"Today the Balobedu Queenship is on the same recognition level with the Zulu, Venda and Xhosa kingship. “said President Ramaphosa

Once the government implements the Presidents’ confirmation, Khelobedu would be the 12^th official language in the country.