The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) honoured three exceptional women who have made immeasurable contributions to preserving the region's culture during a special function held at the George Phadagi Town Hall in Thohoyandou on Friday, 23 August.

The Women's Day celebration was organised in collaboration with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in Limpopo, with further support from the municipalities of Thulamela, Collins Chabane, and the Vhembe District. The guests of honour were Vho Noria Mabasa, Mama Mamaila Leah Ngobeni, and Vho Tshimangadzo Esther Sinyegwe.

Limpopo MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Mr Jerry Maseko highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage through documentation. “The knowledge these women have acquired in their lifetime is immense. One of the elements we lack when it comes to preserving our cultural heritage is documentation. Let us document their technical skills, teachings of norms, and values for future generations,” he said.

The 86-year-old Vho Noria Mabasa expressed her gratitude for the recognition she received for her more than 20 years of work. She shared that she prefers telling stories through her artwork, including pottery and sculpting. Through her creations, she communicates and educates the community about issues such as gender-based violence and traditional methods of resolving conflicts.

Tshimangadzo Sinyegwe, an energetic songbird, was honoured for her efforts in preserving and promoting Tshivenda traditional music. She also teaches dances such as the malende, tshigombela, tshifasi, and matangwa and is the founder of three cultural dance groups in her community. “My love and passion for culture and traditional music earned me this recognition, which will inspire those who come after me to continue promoting our traditional dances,” said the 72-year-old Sinyegwe.

The NHC confirmed that this event is part of a pilot project that will be implemented nationally to ensure that marginalised communities receive the recognition they deserve in preserving the country’s cultural heritage.