Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize, has announced the coronation of His Majesty King Mangaliso Ndamase, which will take place at Nyandeni Great Place in Libode in the Eastern Cape.
The ceremony will take place on 3 October 2018. It will include the formal investiture of the King, with a performance of the AmaMpondo aseNyandeni traditional and customary ritual and enrobement of the King.
The ceremony will also include the taking of a special oath of office administered by a designated member of the judiciary.
The coronation will be the second of a King since the dawn of democracy following that of His Majesty King Mpendulo Calvin “Zwelonke” Sigcawu, the King of AmaXhosa.
His Majesty King Ndamase is the sixth Kumkani/King of Western Pondoland or AmaMpondo aseNyandeni following in the footsteps of those who came before him.
The Presidency of the Republic has designated 3 October 2018 as the date on which the President will officially hand over the certificate of recognition to the AmaMpondo Kingship and His Majesty during the coronation ceremony.
This follows the recognition of AmaMpondo aseNyandeni as a Kingship and King, respectively by government in 2010.
His Majesty King Ndamase Ndlovuyezwe Ndamase is the son of the late King Makaziwe Ndamase and the late Queen Bhongolethu Ndamase.
King Ndamase took over his position as King in 2008 at the age of 24 years from his mother, Queen Fikelephi Bongolethu Ndamase, who had been the Queen Regent for 11 years.
The Queen Mother, who worked tirelessly to unite AmaMpondo AseNyandeni, passed away on 8 June 2018.
The coronation will take place under the theme, ‘Together celebrating the heritage of AmaMpondo AseNyandeni’ (“Sisonke sibhiyozela inkcubeko yamaMpondo AseNyandeni’). This is in line with government’s approach to restore the institution of traditional leadership.
The historic event will take place in the year celebrating the centenary of former President Nelson Mandela, who was also a traditional leader.
The coronation will be held in celebration of his contribution to cementing democracy, while also respecting and recognising the institution of traditional leadership and the rich cultural heritage of the country.
The coronation also takes place as the country marks the centenary of Mama Albertina Sisulu, who played an important role in the liberation struggle and was a key champion of the rights of women. – SAnews.gov.za
