02 Jul 2019

History has it that Babirwa’s connection to Bangwato dates back to the era of Kgosi Khama III during which Babirwa faced attacks by the Ndebele hence sought Khama’s protection to help them secure their lives and land.

This is how Bobonong and the surrounding villages came to being, and how they became subordinate to Bangwato Tribal Authority.

Babirwa and other well-wishers who had come to witness the inauguration of Kgosi Joel Masilo on June 28 had the main kgotla in Bobonong packed to capacity.

Women, young and old, clad in brown and blue traditional outfits ushered Kgosi Masilo and his wife Gorata with ululations and traditional song while the men also paid their respects, the traditional way.

Kgosi Serogola Seretse of Bangwato Tribal Authority stated that consultations were made in the Bobirwa area.

He said they consented and supported Kgosi Masilo’s ordaination, a development that birthed the inauguration ceremony.Kgosi Seretse urged Babirwa to respect Kgosi Masilo and to support him in serving the people, and challenged Kgosi Masilo to do his job to the best of his ability.

He also urged him to work hand in hand with headmen from Bobonong and surrounding villages and also to seek advise from his elders.

He explained that being a kgosi was a challenging task which he must conduct with vigilance and caution. 

Kgosi Seretse also advised him to seek guidance from God.

Kgosi Maureen Mphoeng of Mmadinare urged Kgosi Masilo to respect and love his people.

She noted that he was going to meet and deal with different people and that he must serve with caution.

For his part, Kgosi Masilo thanked Kgosi Seretse, Kgosi Mphoeng and the village elders for the guidance, words of encouragement and wisdom. 

He also thanked those who attended for their support and acknowledged Babirwa for entrusting him with the task which he promised to do as best as he could.

Kgosi Masilo and his wife were showered with gifts that included P10 000 from his regiment, Maloma Kgomo.

Kgosi Seretse and Kgosi Masilo unveiled a buffalo sculpture which symbolised the tribe’s totem. ENDS