By Nkhensani Mthombeni
- Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba said the historic appointment proves women are chosen by ancestors to lead and preserve culture.
- Livhuwani holds an honours degree in social work and promised to work with the government to uplift her community.
Livhuwani Ntshandule has made history as the first woman to become the senior traditional leader of the Mutele Traditional Council.
She was officially inaugurated on Friday at the Mutele Sports Ground in Musina, near the Pafuri gate of the Kruger National Park.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba led the ceremony and handed her the certificate of inauguration.
Ramathuba said Livhuwani’s appointment shows progress in traditional leadership.
“This is a new chapter where patriarchy gives way to progressive customs,” said the premier.
“It proves that women are born leaders and are chosen by the ancestors to preserve culture and develop communities.”
Livhuwani is the daughter of the late Khosi Muteli Khorommbi John and Emma Nndafhiseni.
She was raised as a princess and guided by Christian values.
She holds an honours degree in social work with psychology from the University of Venda.
Ramathuba encouraged other young traditional leaders to follow Livhuwani’s example and focus on education.
“In this era, royal blood alone is not enough. Our people deserve leaders who are educated, ethical and focused on development,” she said.
In her speech, Livhuwani thanked her parents for raising her with love.
She told young people to value education as the key to success.
“I will work with the government and the community to make sure our area develops,” she said.
Pictured above: Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba and Livhuwani Ntshandule at the inauguration ceremony.
Image source: Limpopo Office of the Premier
