06 Oct 2022

Scores of Bangwaketse and well-wishers filled the Kanye main kgotla Wednesday to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of Bangwaketse paramount chief, Kgosi Malope II’s enthronement.

Kgosi Malope II ascended to the seat following the death of his father, Kgosi Seepapitso IV in 2010.

Even though Kgosi Malope was coronated as a paramount chief in October 2011, the auspicious occasion could not take place last year, owing to COVID-19 challenges.

Officiating at the event, Bakwena paramount chief Kgosi Kgari III applauded Bangwaketse for honouring and celebrating their leader through a befitting ceremony. 

He said such a gesture showed their tremendous support towards the development of their area.

“I was honoured to drape him with a leopard skin back in 2011, in front of magnitudes of people who attended that ceremony. Today’s celebration is an encouraging gesture which shows your support towards Kgosi Malope, and it is worth emulating by other tribes,” he said.

He urged Bangwaketse to continue supporting and advising their leader for effective development of their area. 

However, he said people should acknowledge that Kgosi Malope II’s position, which oversees a large territory comprising many villages, came with challenges. 

Kgosi Kgari III therefore  appealed to them to have understanding when the paramount chief could not attend all the social event he got invited to. “I encourage you to unite and keep supporting him in this journey in order to achieve your goals and also be exemplary to others,” he said.

Chairperson of the coordinating committee, Mr Otlaadisa Koosaletse said even though the event was a year late, Kgosi Malope’s achievements and leadership were worth celebrating. 

“Bangwaketse should be proud because their chieftaincy is one of the most enduring dynasties in Southern Africa,” he said.

He noted that there were notable achievements under his leadership, which included the reinstatement of traditional activities such as Dikgafela, renovation of the main kgotla shelter as well as the revamping of the Mmalekwa cemetery. 

The latter is a historic burial place for some of the royal family members, London Missionary Society preachers, war veterans and other community builders.

For his part, Kgosi Malope commended his people for their continuous support which enabled him to execute his duties over the years. 

He said sad one of the flagships of his roadmap was to resuscitate culture in his territory, hence revival of regiment.

“In this regard, I have since launched three regiments after mine was launched, and I am hopeful that I will continue to launch more in the future when necessary,” he noted.

Subsequently, he implored parents to encourage their eligible children to join regiments and participate in community events and activities. 

On other issues, Kgosi Malope said the high rate of gender based violence was a concern across the country. 

He underscored the need to empower the girl-child to reduce dependency on their partners. Ends