Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has assured traditional leaders that the provincial government will provide tools and training to help them fulfil their roles effectively, within available resources.

Speaking at the opening of the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders and Khoi-San on Thursday, 29 May, at the Thengwe Flying Peace Sports Grounds, Ramathuba said: “The government will also initiate training programmes to empower traditional leaders, reinforcing our commitment to making this institution a powerful force for positive change.”

She called for unity and stronger collaboration: “Together, as we stand on the threshold of this new beginning, let us pledge to work hand in hand, fostering respect, collaboration and empowerment across our communities. I urge us all to strengthen our communication and linkages between the Houses and the broader community.”

Premier Ramathuba was joined by the chairperson of the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders and Khoi-San Leaders, Hosi Pheni Ngove; Deputy Minister of Traditional Affairs Zolile Burns-Ncamashe; and several MECs, including Basikopo Makamu, MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs.

She reflected on Thengwe’s heritage, recounting legends of local warriors and the area's abundance of medicinal plants, including the mutavhatsindi tree. “We gather here today in the spirit of unity and respect to open the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders and Khoi-San. This day marks not just an opening, but a significant step forward in recognising and empowering the pivotal roles that traditional leadership plays in our society,” she said.

Ramathuba described the occasion as a moment to honour Limpopo’s cultural heritage, home to two kingships, one queenship and 203 traditional communities. “Here, under this roof, we celebrate our identity and our connection to the ancestors who have guided us through the ages,” she said.

She noted that the province has made progress, with traditional councils established in all districts and 168 senior traditional leaders recognised. However, she acknowledged that more than 200 leadership vacancies remain, including 33 senior positions. “We cannot advance our society without properly empowering our leaders,” she said.