Several thousand members of the Vhalemba clan gathered at Moddervlei Farm, just outside Elim, on Saturday for the 76th annual Lemba Cultural Association (LCA) Conference.
The event, held at the Lemba Cultural Centre in Sweetwaters, was attended by both local and international guests from countries such as Israel, Canada, and Zimbabwe. Among the notable attendees were the South African Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Musoni Rejoice Mabudafhasi, the president of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathale, and several Lemba business members from across the country.
According to Mr Frederick Mutenda, president of the LCA, the day marked the anniversary of human creation and the special relationship between humans and God, the Creator. He noted that many other organisations catered to the interests of the Jewish people in South Africa. "All of them exist in harmony and mutual respect, despite the tensions, real or imagined, that might exist between them," he said. "I accept that, as Lembas, we are not a homogeneous people. We have different spiritual and physical needs and wants. It is almost impossible for one organisation to cater to all of our needs."
Mutenda also stated that the true history of the Lemba people in South Africa had yet to be fully captured. "In that narrative, the role played by the Lemba Cultural Association will feature prominently," he told attendees. "It is incumbent upon you, and all of us, to write that narrative. If we do not, others will do it for us. All we will be able to do is complain that the hunter is writing the narrative of the hunted."
Mr Cassel Mathale emphasised the importance of every Lemba knowing and understanding who they are, where they come from, and what their cultural customs entail, in order to navigate the future with pride. "The Lemba community must return to its roots," he said. "This should involve every Lemba, especially the youth. No one should be left out."
Mathale added that returning to Lemba roots meant rebuilding all branches to ensure the community remained relevant in pursuing its goal of cultural preservation. He stressed that leadership must rise to the occasion and guide the community in preserving their culture, while also listening to all members of the Lemba community without bias.