LIMPOPO – The annual Makuleke Day held recently at the Makuleke Royal Palace near Malamulele, just outside the Pafuri Gate of the Kruger National Park (KNP), was a vibrant celebration of tradition, heritage, and community success.

Dressed in colourful traditional attire, attendees enjoyed energetic music and dance performances throughout the day. But beyond the festivities, the event marked a significant milestone for the Makuleke people: 31 years of democracy and 21 years since the restitution of their ancestral land.

The day was graced by prominent guests, including renowned musician Dr Thomas Chauke, University of Pretoria Chancellor Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, and respected traditional leaders such as Hosi Nhlaneki and Hosi Xigamani.

Ndabezitha (Chief) Humphrey Mugakula expressed pride in his community’s journey, noting that reclaiming their land has allowed them to grow and thrive.

“We are celebrating democracy with dignity because we have our land back, and we are benefitting from it,” he said.

The Makuleke community was forcibly removed from their land in 1969 by the apartheid regime and scattered across regions, including Zimbabwe and Mozambique. In 1995, following the implementation of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, they submitted a land claim, which was approved in 2004.

Instead of accepting financial compensation, the Makuleke Traditional Council chose to reclaim their 27 000ha, a decision that has since paid off.

Despite offers of millions from Australian and American mining companies, the council opted to preserve the land’s rich biodiversity and cultural value.

Today, they are in a 50-year co-management partnership with Sanparks, overseeing conservation efforts in the Pafuri section of the KNP. The community has built three eco-tourism lodges, created local employment for tour guides, and established environmental schools.

The region, known for its iconic baobab trees, sits at the tri-border of South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. Through various development initiatives, including a successful banana plantation supplying major South African retailers, the Makuleke have created over 100 jobs for residents.

They also received a R6.4m grant, which doubled in value within just three years thanks to effective investment and management.

Chief Mugakula paid tribute to Sharon Haussmann, a supporter of the Makuleke cause, who passed away recently. A moment of silence was observed in her honour.

Sanparks managing executive Oscar Mthimkhulu highlighted the partnership with the community, and Contralesa president Kgosi Lamech Mokwena and Dr Joe Maswanganyi congratulated the leadership for developing the community to its current state.

The celebration concluded with a lively musical concert featuring Dr Chauke, Shongi, DJ Mfhudhisi, and other local artists, leaving the community uplifted and inspired by their shared achievements.