The new, state-of-the-art Mphaphuli Tribal Council offices, located in Mbilwi village just outside Thohoyandou, were officially handed over on Friday, 29 November. The ceremony was attended by Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs, Basikopo Makamu.
The new tribal council complex includes an office block, a guardhouse, palisade fencing, and open, paved parking. It is conveniently accessible from the main road.
Premier Ramathuba described the new complex as a significant milestone, underscoring the Limpopo Provincial Government's commitment to supporting and equipping traditional leaders with the necessary tools for their work.
"Traditional councils are the heartbeat of our communities, bridging the rich heritage of our past with the dynamic demands of the present. They are sanctuaries of culture and wisdom, custodians of our identity, and pillars of social cohesion. Today, as we open the doors to the Mphaphuli Traditional Council Office, we reaffirm our collective commitment to empowering these vital institutions and ensuring they thrive in the modern era," said Dr Ramathuba.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli and all traditional leaders across Limpopo, praising their leadership as a beacon of unity, justice, and service.
"Out of 168 recognized senior traditional leaders, 157 traditional communities have been constituted, meeting the requirements of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act," she said. Ramathuba added that 40% of traditional-council members are now elected by communities, reflecting the government's commitment to inclusivity. "We are resolute in finalising the outstanding councils to ensure compliance with legal frameworks by February 2025," she said.
Representing the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders, Thovhele Ratshibvumo II Rambuda commended the government's efforts to recognise and support traditional leaders. He said the new facilities would serve as a hub for delivering services and fostering development within communities.
In his response, while accepting the new facility, Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli said the offices would enable communities under the Mphaphuli Tribal Council to access various services conveniently under one roof.