Queen mother of the Vatsonga nation, Hosi Tinyiko Lwandlamuni Phyllia Nwamitwa, leaves a lasting legacy as a unifier.
By: Moyahabo Mabeba
A somber mood has engulfed the vast hinterland of the Vatsonga nation following the passing of their iconic queen mother.
The death of Dr. Phylia Tinyiko Lwandlamuni N’Wamitwa II sent shockwaves when the sad news was announced.
She was the first female traditional leader of the Vatsonga people and the first woman in South Africa’s history to be appointed as Hosi.
N’Wamitwa II was hailed as a trailblazer who broke long-standing cultural and societal barriers, paving the way for women in traditional leadership. Beyond her royal duties, she was a committed public servant and freedom fighter who actively participated in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa negotiations in the early 1990s, which laid the foundation for South Africa’s democratic dispensation in 1994.
Premier Phophi Ramathuba said N’wamitwa for her unwavering dedication to public service that saw her serve as a Member of Parliament for fifteen years, from 1994 to 2009, where she contributed meaningfully to the shaping of the young democracy.
“Her commitment to education and community development was equally profound. She served in the education sector as a Circuit Inspector, leaving a lasting impact on learners, educators and communities alike.
“We have lost a giant of our time, an activist and a fearless leader who shattered the shackles of patriarchal oppression by claiming her rightful place as heir to the Valoyi royal throne. Hosi Dr N’Wamitwa II was a steadfast advocate for women’s rights and a powerful voice against gender-based violence and femicide,” Ramathuba said.
Ramathuba said N’Wamitwa II will be remembered as a courageous pioneer, a servant of the people, and a symbol of transformative leadership.
The MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs,
Basikopo Makamu said the traditional leadership sector is deeply saddened by N’Wamitwa’s passing.
Makamu said N’wamitwa was known for being a unifier in the community.
“Hosi Nwamitwa II was a committed leader and an epitome of wisdom within the institution of traditional leadership in the province. She championed the construction of schools and clinics in the community. Her devotion to community development also saw her receive sponsorships from overseas, for the empowerment her people, including the youth. She also led the Mopani Local House of Traditional Leaders and also served as an Executive member in the
Provincial House of Traditional Leaders,” Makamu said.
Makamu has described Nwamitwa’s passing as a tremendous loss to the institution of traditional leadership in the province. “We are deeply touched by the passing of this great daughter of the soil. She was the pillar of strength in the institution of traditional leadership. Death has robbed us of a dedicated Senior Traditional Leader and a community builder of note,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mopani District Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Pule Shayi has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Valoyi community and the people of Mopani.
Shai said N’wamitwa’s death is a great shock to him, and also members of the district council. “We have learnt with great shock the passing of a towering giant whose passion and steadfast service to her people will long be remembered” he said.
Shai lauded the outstanding leadership of N’wamitwa, saying she will forever remain a potent symbol of resistance, and an inspiration in the continuing broader struggle for gender equality and women emancipation.
“As we mourn the passing of an inspirational leader whose expertise knew no boundaries, we also applaud the immense role she played in contributing to the development of her community and shaping its future.
“On behalf of the people of Mopani, its District Council and the entire administrative component, we extend our sincere condolences to the Valoyi Community, and particularly the family of Hosi N’wamitwa II on the passing on of our dearly beloved mother,” he said.