A 12-year-old boy, Tshinetise Ravhura, was publicly declared the traditional leader of Makonde, a fast-developing village north of Thohoyandou at the weekend. This follows the tragic death of his father, Chief Azwianewi David Mutshinyalo Ravhura, in September 2012.
A man of few words, who was loved and respected by his community, Chief Azwianewi David Mutshinyalo Ravhura committed suicide by hanging himself in the storeroom of his palace without leaving a note. He was 49 years old.
Tshinetise’s new traditional leadership name is Vhamusanda Vho-Tshedza Ravhura. His ndumi is seven-year-old Anwani Ravhura, whereas the khadzi is Fulufhelo Ravhura (13).
The Ravhura chieftainship came into the limelight when they entered the Venda kingship fray as one of the claimants in 2004. They wanted to be recognized by the Nhlapo Commission as the most senior traditional leaders in Venda. Their claim was, however, dismissed by the commission.
“Because Tshinetise is still a minor, I have the pleasure to announce that Tshilidzi Edward Ravhura (49) has been nominated by the Ravhura Royal House as regent (khosi-pfareli) until Tshinetise grows up and takes over the chieftainship. The khosi-pfareli will be assisted by Rudzani Ravhura. Tshinetise must be given an opportunity to concentrate on his studies, so that he can acquire education to enable him to lead this village with wisdom,” said Thovhele Midiyavhathu Kennedy Tshivhase when conducting the installation rituals.
Tshivhase indicated that the Ravhura Royal House had approached the Tshivhase Traditional Council, complaining that they needed someone to lead the village after the passing on of the late chief. “It was legally, constitutionally and unanimously agreed by all the concerned parties that Tshilidzi Edward Ravhura will act as khosi-pfareli of this village. His first major task in this village is to make sure that all illegal mining of building sand is stopped with immediate effect. We have no doubt that, through his visionary leadership, Tshilidzi Edward Ravhura will be able to steer this village to its former glory.”
He urged the khosi-pfareli to work closely with developmental structures to steer development in the village. “As a senior traditional leader, I’m very happy that we now have someone who will be able to lead this village with distinction and dedication. The khosi-pfareli should be able to prioritise education and community development projects. If he does not perform as expected, we will remove him and get someone who will put the interests of the community first.”
Ravhura royal house family representative Vhavenda Vho-Avhafarei Ravhura said the clan was excited that the dignity of the traditional leadership in the village had been restored. “There were many challenges because the throne was vacant. We urge all community members to be united and work together with the new khosi-pfareli to develop this village.”
The new khoro which will work with the khosi-pfareli is composed of Vhavenda Vho-Avhafarei Ravhura (senior advisor), Rudzani Ravhura, Dr Tshililo Alidzulwi, Colbert Ravhura, Elvis Ravhura, Sai Phaswana, Godfrey Masia, Nthatheni Tshibalo, Boshotho Ravhura, Mphedziseni Makuya, ME Netswera and Rebecca Rambuda.
