The recognition of Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII as the leader of the Balobedu Queenship marks an important moment in South Africa’s history and highlights the value of traditional leadership in promoting unity and reconciliation.
Queen Modjadji, also known as the Rain Queen, is part of a long line of Balobedu rulers famous for their role in rainmaking, a tradition that remains deeply respected to this day.
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently legally recognised Princess Masalanabo Modjadji as the Queen of the Balobedu Queenship – the only legally recognised Queenship in South Africa.
READ | Queen Masalanabo Modjadji legally recognised
The recognition not only honours the cultural heritage of the Balobedu people but also reinforces the importance of traditional leaders in building a stronger and more united South Africa.
Queen Modjadji’s recognition is about more than leadership. It is about protecting traditions that connect people to their history. The Rain Queen represents hope, cultural pride, and unity.
The institution, status and role of traditional leadership, according to customary law, are recognised, subject to the Constitution.
In the same vein, government acknowledges the critical role of traditional leadership institutions in the country’s constitutional democracy and in communities.
As South Africa celebrates Reconciliation Month, the story of Queen Modjadji VII serves as an inspiration. Her reign invites South Africans to reflect on the power of traditional leadership in shaping a future rooted in unity and mutual respect.
In the words of President Cyril Ramaphosa, the recognition of Queen Modjadji VII introduces a new chapter and is a moment of great significance to the rich history of the Balobedu Nation.
Under her reign, Queen Modjadji VII is expected to lead initiatives that address the socioeconomic needs of her people. This as a Presidency in a statement emphasised collaboration between the Royal Family and government to promote development within the Balobedu jurisdiction.
Queen Modjadji VII’s ascension to the throne breaks new ground for women in traditional leadership.
While many traditional leadership roles are held by men, the Balobedu Queenship is unique as it celebrates the leadership of women. Queen Modjadji is a symbol of progress, showing that women can play a central role in both traditional and modern leadership.
In his Women’s Day 2024 address to the nation, President Ramaphosa said that women in South Africa enjoy rights and freedoms under the Constitution including being significantly represented in Parliament, government and the judiciary.
The President’s recognition of Queen Modjadji is testament to this.
Traditional leaders like Queen Modjadji help communities to work together and solve problems. Their role is important in keeping cultures alive, building peace, and addressing challenges faced by communities.
Queen Modjadji’s recognition is not just about the Balobedu nation, it is a win for the whole country as it serves as a reminder that traditional leadership can bring people together and contribute to building a united South Africa.
The recognition is especially poignant as South Africa will mark national Reconciliation Day on 16 December 2023 to promote social cohesion, healing, unity and nation-building. – SAnews.gov.za
