The Davhana clan celebrated Davhana Heritage Day on Saturday, 25 February. Although members of the Davhana clan are scattered all over Limpopo Province, many of them gathered next to the grave site in the Nesengani area for the occasion.

This year’s celebrations were attended by more than 100 people, including members from the Freedom Park Heritage Site, the Amazizi Traditional Council in the Eastern Cape and other traditional chiefs. 

“We must learn to live the African way. It’s the only way to live in freedom and with dignity,” said Thovhele Vho-Ndivheni Nesengani II. “Today, we are here to educate and celebrate the Davhana tribe’s unique cultural and natural heritage. Since the day of my inauguration, it has been my purpose, together with my grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, to ensure that I lead in honour of the great warrior Davhana. As a senior traditional leader, I have to make sure that there is a link between what history means now and what lessons we can learn from the past, as this can truly shape our future.”

Nesengani said he had a vision, not only for his clan but for the whole country. He encouraged his clan to continue appreciating and protecting the ancient sites, such as Mount Luvhola where their ancestors were buried, and educate communities on the importance of conservation and to create an attractive environment where foreign investors could invest in small to medium enterprises owned by youths and women.

Princess Azola Mabinza from the Amazizi Traditional Council said: “I am really impressed by the way the Davhana youths respect this day. This shows they are well aware of where they come from. It shows that this generation will not lose its identity.”

Ms Jane Mufamadi, the chief executive officer of the Freedom Park Heritage Site, also voiced her appreciation of the event. “Besides celebrating their heritage, the event brings different communities together, contributing to social cohesion and nation building. It is interesting to see that Thovhele Vho-Nesengani has invited other chiefs from as far as the Eastern Cape. This is also an exchange of culture. If it is promoted properly, it will further contribute to heritage tourism,” she said.

Guests were treated to traditional cultural dances, like the tshigombela, tshikona and malende.