Thokozile Mnguni
A deep sense of loss and pride filled Kwamhlanga Stadium as mourners gathered to bid farewell to King Makhosonke II Mabhena.
The long-serving amaNdebele monarch is remembered as a leader of humanity, honour and cultural preservation.
Tributes highlighted his commitment to rural communities and his efforts to strengthen ties between government and traditional leadership structures.
The king was buried today following ceremonial proceedings conducted by the South African National Defence Force at Kwamhlanga Stadium.
Delivering a eulogy, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said a mighty tree has fallen, adding that its shade no longer shelters the amaNdebele people.
He said His Majesty ascended the throne in 1986 and ruled for four decades with dignity and humility.
He described him as a custodian of culture who preserved sacred traditions that kept amaNdebele songs, murals and rituals alive.
“He said heritage was a living force. It shapes identity. It strengthens the community.”
“His Majesty’s presence strengthened his people, his wisdom guided them, and his devotion united them, giving voice to their heritage and anchoring their unity. He institutionalised the Komjekejeke to honour King Silamba, transforming it into a revered annual gathering, a symbol of resilience, unity, and cultural pride,” Mashatile said.
Mashatile said King Makhosonke II advanced initiatives that empowered rural communities and promoted dignity and communal harmony.
“With particular care, he advanced programmes that promoted men’s health and sustained the overall well-being of the communities.”
“His Majesty’s leadership was not confined to the boundaries of the AmaNdebele people. He understood that South Africa, in all its diverse ethnicities, is one nation,” he added.
Mashatile further said, “As present leaders, we must also draw inspiration from the fact that His Majesty ruled not through fear or distance, but through counsel, listening, and example. He knew that kingship is not about personal elevation but about service to the ancestors, to the living, and to those yet to be born.”
“As we bid him farewell, we mourn a leader whose spirit will remain woven into the fabric of his people and the whole nation. The grave might have claimed his immortal body but could never steal his legacy that stands as a reminder that dignity, culture, and unity are the pillars upon which nations stand,” Mashatile added.
Bapedi Queen Manyaku Thulare said she regarded King Makhosonke II as her son. She urged his children to approach her with any issues they may face. She also appealed for the family to take the kingdom seriously and continue their work.
Speaking on behalf of the grandchildren, Lethu Mabhena described his grandfather as passionate about helping young people, supporting the less fortunate, encouraging education and urging people to seize opportunities when they arise.
One of his daughters, Felicia Mabena, said the family is grateful for his life and the impact he made on many.
“He carried the hopes of many people and preserved the culture of the Ndebele. What made him remarkable is that he remained approachable and treated people with dignity and respect. He instilled values in us, guided us and loved us unconditionally, and he will forever remain our father, king. We will continue to work together to build the community of amaNdebele,” she said.