Newly installed traditional leader pledges sustainable development

The community of Tovhowani, outside Malamulele, has been without a permanent ruler for the past 16 years. Since the passing away of incumbent Vhamusanda Vho Josias Langa Ramovha in 2009, regents have ruled the village successively. However, this era has come to an end. On Saturday, 9 December, the entire village gathered at Tovhowani Mulenzhe to witness the official installation of their new traditional leader, Dr Thomas Ramovha.

Ramovha is not an ordinary chief; he is a well-educated academic who has served in senior positions in government and the private sector. Currently working as a part-time lecturer at the University of Limpopo, his inauguration drew not only local attendees but also esteemed guests, including professors and doctors.

The new chief, Vhamusanda Vholanga Langa Ramovha, was installed by Vhavenda Vhokhamusi Ramovha, representing Thovhele Nkhaneni Ramovha, who was supposed to perform the rites. Vhavenda Vhokhamusi Ramovha was the last acting chief before this installation.

Following the ceremony, Ramovha pledged to collaborate with the senior traditional leader, Thovhele Nkhaneni, in developing his area. He acknowledged the challenges faced by rural areas, such as a lack of water, poor roads, and other basic needs, emphasising the goal of sustainable development in partnership with local, provincial, and other stakeholders, including institutions of higher learning.

Addressing education as a focus area, Ramovha announced plans for excellence awards starting from December 2024 to motivate learners to study harder. He also expressed the intention to review the curriculum to ensure its relevance to the local situation.

The installation ceremony concluded with traditional dances and the tshikona dance, led by the new chief.

Date:22 December 2023

By: Elmon Tshikhudo

Elmon Tshikhudo started off as a photographer. He developed an interest in writing and started submitting articles to local as well as national publications. He became part of the Limpopo Mirror family in 2005 and was a permanent part of the news team until 2019.

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