Pretoria: Tributes continue to pour in for His Majesty King Makhosonke II, King of the amaNdebele nation, who passed away on Tuesday. The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, conveyed his condolences following the passing of the king at the age of 65.
According to South African Government News Agency, Minister Hlabisa extended his heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, the Royal Family, the amaNdebele as a whole, and the broader traditional leadership fraternity during this difficult time. The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) noted that throughout his reign, His Majesty was devoted to the development and empowerment of traditional communities.
In joining President Cyril Ramaphosa's tribute, the department highlighted the King's role in strengthening the amaNdebele community, preserving its cultural heritage, promoting social cohesion, and fostering unity. His leadership went beyond his kingship, contributing to nation-building and promoting peace and cooperation across South Africa. President Ramaphosa described His Majesty as a pillar of national unity in diversity and a champion of development, emphasizing his focus on education and land restitution.
The Minister praised His Majesty as a respected traditional leader and nation-builder who brought people together. As the inaugural Chairperson of the Forum for South Africa's Majesties, King Makhosonke II helped shape cooperation between government and traditional leadership, leaving an enduring legacy in community upliftment and cultural preservation.
The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) also joined the nation in mourning the King's passing. The NHC extended condolences to the Royal Family and the amaNdebele nation, acknowledging His Majesty's leadership and commitment to preserving culture and tradition. The Council recognized the unique role traditional leaders play in safeguarding South Africa's intangible cultural heritage.
Throughout his reign, King Makhosonke II championed the promotion of amaNdebele culture and identity. The NHC had collaborated with him on numerous cultural and heritage initiatives, reflecting a shared commitment to celebrating South Africa's rich living heritage. NHC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thabo Manetsi, emphasized the loss to the country's heritage sector, acknowledging the King's understanding of the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge systems.
The Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) expressed sympathies to the amaNdebele Nation. PanSALB Chief Executive Officer, Dr Keaobaka Seshoka, extended condolences to the royal family, recognizing King Makhosonke II's contributions to isiNdebele language preservation. His support for the language's advancement will remain an enduring legacy, ensuring its continued growth.
PanSALB highlighted the King's instrumental role in launching isiNdebele on the Wikipedia platform, a project aimed at increasing its digital presence. This initiative saw significant growth in isiNdebele content on Wikipedia, marking a milestone in its integration into the digital sphere. PanSALB joins the nation in mourning a revered leader and custodian of language, culture, and heritage.