The royal family of Modjadji and the Balobedu dynasty will on Saturday celebrate the official recognition of the Modjadji queenship after former President Jacob Zuma approved the recognition thereof in 2016.
Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta) spokesperson Motupa Selomo said Zuma approved the recognition of the Modjadji queenship in terms of Section 2 of the traditional leadership and governance framework Act after it was dethroned to them in 1972 by the apartheid regime. This is the first queenship in South Africa, stated Selomo, adding that the royal family has appointed Bakhoma Mpapatla Modjadji as the regent until Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII, 13 and is old enough to take the throne.
It was reported that Masalanabo will take her rightful place when she is 18 and it is alleged that she has got the powers to make it rain.
The celebration regarded as a historic event, is expected to be attended President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President David Mabuza, kings, members of Cabinet and their deputies, premiers, Members of the Executive Council (MECs), religious leaders and all members of the diplomatic core.
The main celebration will be held at Mokwakwaila stadium, Ga-Modjadji in the Greater Letaba municipality starting from 10:00.
Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za