Mpumalanga, Republic of South Africa – Inkhosi Hhoyi II of the kaNgomane chiefdom expressed profound gratitude to all traditional leaders who attended the ummemo event on Saturday. The gathering highlighted both community support and pressing issues concerning the registration of Mozambican immigrants within the community.
Chief Hhoyi II addressing the gathering.
In his address, Inkhosi Hhoyi II underscored the importance of registering migrants for statistical and developmental purposes, assuring them that their information would not be reported to the police. “Our goal is to ensure that all residents are accounted for and included in community development plans,” he stated. He also called attention to the alarming trend of unregistered children being born every day, stressing the need for proper registration within the chiefdom to support their future.
Acknowledging the contributions of regional leadership, Inkhosi Hhoyi thanked His Majesty King Mswati III for his remarkable hospitality extended to traditional leaders during their visits to Eswatini.
Chief Dambuza Lukhele, representing King Mswati III, conveyed the message of unity across borders, stating, “Though separated by borders, we are still Emaswati.” He emphasized the historical ties that bind communities’ together and encouraged collaboration to strengthen cultural identity. “Our meeting here today symbolizes our historical journey,” Chief Lukhele remarked. “We must stand firm as a black nation, ensuring that Africa unites, develops, and succeeds economically.”
Furthermore, Dambuza noted, “It is pleasing to see the ummemo growing and aligning with happenings in Eswatini. We must continue to unite under our king.”
Chairperson of the Mpumalanga House of Traditional Leaders and national president of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa Mathupa Lameck Mokoena delivers a political statement
Mathupa Lameck Mokoena, chairperson of the Mpumalanga House of Traditional Leaders and national president of the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa), also expressed his appreciation to King Mswati III for sending an official delegation to the event.
However, Mokoena raised concerns regarding proposed legislative changes, including the controversial idea of allowing two males to be married to one woman and altering surnames from male to female. He warned that such laws could perpetuate gender-based violence (GBV) and emphasized that local leaders were firmly against these proposals.
“We, as traditional leaders, are committed to fighting for our community’s rights on various platforms. Today is dedicated to promoting our rich culture and ensuring our practices reflect our values,” Mokoena concluded.
The event was graced by a delegation from Eswatini led by the Director of Culture in the King’s Office, Prince Bukhosi, alongside Acting Celebration Officer in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Mlandvo Dlamini, and members of the Eswatini Border Adjustment Committee. Traditional leaders from various regions of South Africa, including the Eastern Cape, were also present, reflecting the diverse representation of communities dedicated to cultural preservation and collaboration
The ummemo event demonstrated a strong commitment to community solidarity and cultural preservation amidst the challenges faced by the region. As traditional leaders gathered to honor their heritage and unite for progress, the message was clear: the strength of their communities lies in unity and mutual support.