Pretoria – Thousands of people will gather in Limpopo on Friday for the King Toni Mphephu Ramabulana Fun Walk and the centuries-old tradition of Musangwe, a form of bare-knuckle boxing.
Musangwe helps build courage among young men and prepares them for life’s challenges. The age-old sport has been used to gauge their bravery.
The Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Obed Bapela will be attending the event which will be preceded by a 25km King’s Fun Walk.
“Most of the fighters have the potential to make it in boxing and some of the well known boxers from Venda started through this cultural practice and there is hope that in the near future there will soon be a world champion from this area,” said Deputy Minister Bapela.
He said traditional leaders have heeded the call from President Jacob Zuma’s State of the Nation Address to grow the economy and create jobs to better the lives of all South Africans. In this regard there are several examples of traditional leaders who have projects to uplift their communities.
During the Month of September, which is Heritage Month, the Deputy Minister encouraged South Africans to pride themselves in the country’s diverse cultures under the theme “Our Tradition - Our Pride" - Siyazigabisa nga masiko wethu - Reya ikgantsha ka meetlo ya Rona”.
Last year, the event was attended by more than 2000 spectators at the Royal Gardens picnic site in Mutoti village, near Thohoyandou.
King Toni Mphephu Ramabulana has vowed to make the sport an annual affair, to be held during Heritage Month. – SAnews.gov.za
