NATIONAL HERITAGE COUNCIL PAYS TRIBUTE TO HIS MAJESTY KING MAKHOSONKE II
The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) joins the nation in mourning the passing of His Majesty King Makhosonke II, King of the amaNdebele nation, who passed away at the age of 65 after serving his people with distinction for four decades.
The NHC extends its heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty Queen Sekhotali, the Royal Family, the amaNdebele nation, and all those whose lives were touched by His Majesty’s leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the preservation of culture and tradition
Traditional leaders occupy a unique and vital place in South Africa’s heritage landscape. As custodians of indigenous knowledge systems, living heritage, customs, traditions, languages, and cultural practices, they play a critical role in safeguarding the nation’s intangible cultural heritage for the current and future generations.
Throughout his reign, King Makhosonke II championed the promotion and preservation of amaNdebele culture and identity. His leadership helped ensure that traditional customs, cultural expressions, and community values remained vibrant and relevant within South Africa’s diverse cultural tapestry.
The NHC had the privilege of working alongside His Majesty on several cultural and heritage initiatives over the years. The Council supported several cultural events under his leadership. At the same time, His Majesty, in turn, welcomed and invited the NHC to participate in important cultural gatherings and heritage celebrations within the kingdom. These engagements reflected a shared commitment to preserving, promoting, and celebrating South Africa’s rich living heritage.
Commenting on the passing of His Majesty, NHC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thabo Manetsi, said:
“The passing of His Majesty King Makhosonke II is a profound loss not only to the amaNdebele nation but also to South Africa’s broader heritage sector. He was a respected traditional leader who understood the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage, indigenous knowledge systems, and the traditions that define communities. Through his leadership, he ensured that the cultural legacy of the amaNdebele people remained vibrant and meaningful for future generations. The NHC is grateful for the partnership and support he extended to the Council over the years, and we will remember him as a dedicated custodian of our nation’s living heritage.”
The NHC further acknowledges the longstanding partnership between traditional leadership structures and the heritage sector, which is strengthened by its Memorandum of Understanding with the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (NHTKL). Through this collaboration, traditional leaders continue to play an important role in advancing heritage preservation, social cohesion, and nation-building.
As South Africa reflects on the life and legacy of King Makhosonke II, the NHC honours his contribution to cultural preservation, traditional leadership, and the promotion of African heritage.
May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations.
For interview requests, please contact: Tebogo Shilakwe, 084 597 8881 email: t.shilakwe@nhc.org.za.