Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Minister Zweli Mkhize says the coronation of King Ndamase Ndlovuyezwe Ndamase, which is set to take place on 3 October, is a milestone that marks the importance of traditional leadership.
“This key milestone in the journey of our democracy, symbolises the importance of the institution of traditional leadership. Section 211 of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996 (Act 108 of 1996), recognises the institution, status and role of traditional leadership,” said Mkhize.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially hand over the certificate of recognition to the AmaMpondo Kingship and His Majesty during the coronation ceremony at Nyandeni Great Place, Libode in the Eastern Cape.
This follows the recognition of amaMpondo ase Nyandeni as a Kingship and King, respectively by government in 2010.
The ceremony will take the form of the formal investiture, involving the performance of 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 King of the amaXhosa Kingship. His Majesty King Ndamase is the sixth Kumkani/King of the Western Pondoland or AmaMpondo AseNyandeni following in the footsteps of those who came before him.
His Majesty King Ndamase Ndlovuyezwe Ndamase is the son of the late King Makaziwe Ndamase and the late Queen Bhongolwethu Ndamase.
King Ndamase took over his position as King in 2008 at the age of 24 years from his mother, Queen Fikelephi Bongolethu Ndamase – “Queen Mother” who had been the Queen Regent for 11 years. Sadly, the Queen Mother who worked tirelesly to unite the AmaMpondo AseNyandeni passed away on 08 June 2018.
The coronation will take place under the theme, “Together celebrating the heritage of AmaMpondo AseNyandeni” and 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 in cementing democracy while also respecting and recognising the institution of traditional leadership and the rich cultural heritage of our country,” said Mkhize.
The coronation also takes place as the country marks the centenary of Mama Albertina Sisulu who championed the rights of women.
“The coronation will celebrate Mama Sisulu through the contribution of Queen Mother Bhongolwethu Ndamase who worked tirelesly to unite AmaMpondo AseNyandeni during her 11 years reign as Queen Regent, proving the capability of women as leaders,” said Mkhize. - SAnews.gov.za
