The life and times of fallen heroes get recognition
The importance of the institution of traditional leadership cannot be overemphasised in modern society.
MBOMBELA – The times and lives, the roles and contributions of traditional leaders who fell in the struggle for freedom, were finally given well-deserved recognition.
The provincial government, led by premier Mr David Mabuza, the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders led by its chairperson, Kgoshi Mathupa L Mokoena and Cogta, led by MEC Simon S’khosana, paid homage to these great leaders who paved the way, not only for other traditional leaders to continue fighting for human rights and liberty, but for all mankind to live freely and without fear of victimisation.
Speaking at the launch of this annual commemoration, Mabuza said the importance of the institution of traditional leadership cannot be overemphasised in modern society. “In essence, it is an institution that continues to protect our history, identity and heritage. Our traditional leaders waged bitter struggles to safeguard our roots from generation to generation, and to this day. It could not have been more fitting to celebrate the fallen heroes during Heritage Month, because, part of what this institution stands for, fits so well with the objectives of the National Heritage Day,” said Mabuza.
“Of course, like all nations, we must pay tribute to our ancestors and honour them throughout our lives. We must acknowledge that it is, among other things, through their hard work and great sacrifices that we were able, as I said earlier on, to achieve the democracy that we have today.
“Through this event, Mpumalanga is not only reaffirming its position as a pioneering province, but also making history by becoming the first one in the country to host an event of this nature,” Mabuza added.
The chairperson of the house, Kgoshi Mokoena, said it has always been his wish to honour those fallen traditional leaders and now feels humbled that the provincial government has deemed it fit to do so.
“On behalf of Amakhosi, I would like to thank the Mpumalanga Government for creating an environment which enables us to work together towards improving the lives of our people,” he said.
