Thousands of residents from Tshiozwi and nearby villages gathered at the royal kraal on 29 November to celebrate Tshiozwi Day, an annual event that has become a key date on the community calendar. The day offers residents an opportunity to reflect on the past year, acknowledge achievements, discuss challenges, and plan ahead. Individuals who have made notable contributions are recognised with certificates and trophies.
The celebrations highlighted the community's cultural heritage through traditional dances, colourful displays and strong local participation.
Guest speaker Kolani Mamburu, an engineer, raised concern about substance abuse among young people. "It pains me to see the young people of my generation abusing alcohol and substances. Alcohol and drugs are not good, because they destroy young people's lives. We are the future leaders of this country, and we will not be able to rule it well if we are not educated," he said. Mamburu urged parents to help restore cultural knowledge by teaching children traditional dances and values.
Vhamusanda Makhado Vhathundimapfura Sinthumule, who initiated the Tshiozwi Day celebrations, said the aim was to promote cultural pride and motivate young people to take education seriously. He encouraged residents to embrace South Africa's diverse heritage, including languages, spirituality, sacred sites, indigenous food and traditional art forms.
Sinthumule stressed the link between culture, education and development. "We need to build on the culture of teaching and learning to produce thought leaders and technical skills that our economy needs for growth, development, and reconstruction," he said.