By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Thousands of Ndebele community members and traditional leaders gathered at Komjekejeke Heritage Site in Wallmasthaal in Tshwane to honour the legacy of King Silamba at the 46th King Silamba Commemoration.
Also present at the vibrant ceremony was Mpumalanga MEC for COGHSTA(Cooperative Governance Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs), Speed Mashilo, alongside Chairperson of the Mpumalanga House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leadrers, Kgoshi Lameck Mokoena, senior officials from both Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provincial Governments, and business leaders.
According to COGHSTA, the occasion holds deep significance for the Ndebele Kingdom, as it celebrates the life, leadership, and enduring cultural heritage associated with King Silamba.
COGHSTA said King Silamba was the leader of the Ndebele Nation when they were forcefully moved to KoMjekejeke by the Boers in the late 1860s.
Furthermore, COGHSTA mentioned that such gatherings and celebrations display the community’s pride in their heritage and their commitment to passing valuable traditions on to future generations.
“ The event also marked a special milestone, the 40th anniversary of the reign of King Makhosonke II, a moment that reflects four decades of leadership, unity, and the continued preservation of Ndebele culture and traditions.
“ The commemoration serves as a reminder of the vital role traditional leadership and cultural institutions play in safeguarding the history, customs, and identity of the Ndebele people,” said COGHSTA.
