History was made during the inauguration of Hosi Abednigo Nxumalo of the Amashangana Traditional Council at the Amashangana Traditional Council’s offices, the Thulamahashe Old Stadium, on June 3.

Hosi Nxumalo is the heir to the throne of the chieftaincy, succeeding his late father, Hosi Mpisana Eric Nxumalo.

It was a celebration attended by various stakeholders, guests and members of legislature, traditional leaders and members of the executive of the Mpumalanga Provincial House of Traditional Khoisan Leaders, and community members.

The Mpumalanga premier, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, and the MEC for co-operative governance and traditional affairs, Mandla Msibi, were among those who attended the inauguration. Mtshweni-Tsipane handed over a certificate of recognition to Hosi Nxumalo. The provincial government stated that it recognises the vital role of the institution of traditional leadership in preserving indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage, and views the inauguration of Hosi Nxumalo as key to affirm this position.

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Xolani Japhta Maziya delivered a keynote address aimed at strengthening the working relations between the provincial government and traditional leaders.

Mtshweni-Tsipane said, “Today’s coronation is a direct result of the cordial and collaborative partnership between the provincial government, house of traditional leaders and Amashangana Traditional Council. This coronation marks the end of a painful era that befell the traditional leader of Amashangana following the passing of Ndabezitha Nxumalo. Today’s coronation ushers a new beginning for the people of Thulamahashe. And it affirms our identity as Africans. Today is a celebration of our identity, heritage, dignity and our pride.”
She said this event is a practical demonstration that government and bokhosi can co-exist on all levels.”

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Mtshweni-Tsipane said they must speak out against the abuse and violence against women and children.

“We need to work together to build a moral and ethical society. It is our responsibility to educate our people about the scourge of gender-based violence.”