By Staff Reporter
MUSINA – Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has applauded the Mutele Royal Family for demonstrating that women, too, are chosen by ancestors to lead and preserve culture.
She delivered this message during the inauguration of Thovhele Vho Mutele Livhuwani Ntshandule at the Mutele Traditional Council in Musina Municipality, Vhembe District, on Friday, 10 October 2025.
Premier Ramathuba described the day as “significant in the history of the Mutele Clan”, marking a new era of leadership rooted in tradition and hope.
She traced the lineage of past leaders, calling the appointment of Thovhele Livhuwani Ntshandule both a generational and cultural milestone.
“This is not only historic but transformative. It marks the dawn of a new chapter where patriarchy gives way to progressive customs, where wisdom is no longer measured by gender,” she said.
Ramathuba commended the Royal Family for their bold decision, saying it sends a powerful message to the province, the country and the continent that women are also chosen by ancestors to lead.
She praised the newly inaugurated Thovhele’s journey — from royal upbringing and Christian values to academic excellence — noting her Honours Degree in Social Work with Psychology from the University of Venda as a reflection of her preparedness for modern leadership.
The Premier also addressed development challenges in Ha-Mutele, including water shortages, poor infrastructure and youth unemployment, assuring the community of government’s commitment to working together to resolve them.
She outlined the provincial government’s land-leasing framework, aimed at unlocking the economic potential of traditional land through sustainable investment in sectors like agriculture, tourism and renewable energy.
“The era of land lying fallow is over. We must think boldly and act decisively. Investors are ready. Opportunities exist. The time is now,” she emphasized.
Ramathuba concluded by offering words of encouragement to the new Thovhele:
“Lead with humility, lead with courage, and lead with wisdom. May the ancestors walk with you. May God guide you.”
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, traditional leaders, faith-based organisations, business representatives and the media.
The inauguration of Thovhele Vho Mutele Livhuwani Ntshandule stands as a historic and transformative momentfor the Mutele Clan and Limpopo Province.
