Access to clean water remains a serious challenge in rural villages across Vhembe District, Limpopo. The newly installed traditional leader of Hamabila near Ngalavhani, Vhamusanda Gegane II Mabila, said he planned to engage with the Vhembe District Municipality (VDM) to address the water shortage in his area.
"We are situated in a deep rural area, hindered by water shortages and poor roads, but now I will engage with the municipalities," said Vhamusanda Mabila.
He was installed on Saturday, 22 November, succeeding his late father, Vhamusanda Mmbangiseni Mabila, who passed away in November 2021. The village had been without a recognised leader until the installation ceremony, known as U dadzwa ha mativha, which was conducted by Thovhele Ratshibvumo II Rambuda.
Thovhele Rambuda condemned ongoing disputes over traditional leadership and urged peace. He also encouraged Gegane II Mabila to lead development projects in the village, including water, gardening, and farming initiatives, and to fight crime.
During the ceremony, Ndamulelo Mabila was named ndumi, and Tshifhiwa Mbedzi was appointed khadzi.
Thulamela Local Municipality representative Athongozwidivha Rambuda welcomed the new leader, saying his installation would allow the municipality to collaborate effectively with the village on development projects.
"Without proper traditional leadership, it becomes very difficult for the municipality to operate with villagers," she said, emphasising the importance of leadership in driving community progress.