TZANEEN – President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised Hosi Dr Tinyiko N’wamitwa II for demonstrating to the world that women are equally capable of serving as traditional leaders.

Ramaphosa was speaking at the funeral of the late chief on Sunday at the Valoyi Cultural Village in N’wamitwa Village. Hosi N’wamitwa made history in 2008 when she became the first female chief of the VaTsonga people.

She passed away on Monday, February 9, after a short illness in a hospital in Gauteng.

The President extended his deepest condolences to the family and the VaTsonga nation. “The VaTsonga nation has lost a mother. Those who have experienced the pain of losing a mother will attest that it is one of the deepest wounds,” he said.

He described her as a leader who left behind a rich legacy of community development and the advancement of rural women’s rights.

“She was firm that women should receive equal treatment in traditional courts on matters relating to customary disputes. She was a steadfast advocate for women’s rights and a powerful voice against gender-based violence,” Ramaphosa said.

The funeral was also attended by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who shared a close relationship with the chief, as well as several ministers and political leaders, including Julius Malema and Floyd Shivambu.

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba described the late chief as a strong supporter of women and said service delivery was always her priority.

Her firstborn daughter, Princess Tsakani Nkambule, paid tribute to her mother, describing her as an extraordinary woman who cared deeply for ordinary people. She thanked her for instilling in her children the values of humility and leadership.

Tributes also poured in from family friend Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Irene Mnisi, and High Commissioner Nelly Manzini, among others.

Hosi Dr Tinyiko N’wamitwa II is survived by three siblings, three daughters, ten grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.