By Celani Sikhakhane
- Rain Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII joined the Zulu Reed Dance in Phongola, where King Misuzulu said her presence revived old ties between the two nations.
- Both King Misuzulu and Queen Masalanabo face legal challenges from siblings who want the thrones, leaving their succession disputes unresolved.
The Rain Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII has strengthened ties between the Balobedu and Zulu nations.
On Saturday she attended the annual Zulu Reed Dance at Mashobeni Royal Palace in Phongola for the first time since President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed her as heir to the Balobedu throne in Limpopo.
Her arrival was met with excitement from the Zulu royal family.
Introducing her to thousands of maidens and regiments, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini said: “The visit of Her Majesty Rain Queen Modjadji VII of Balobedu nation is in fact a revival of the old relationship between the Balobedu and the Zulu nations. We are glad that today she is here to strengthen that relationship between the two nations.”
But both monarchs are facing fierce family disputes.
King Misuzulu has siblings who want him removed. Queen Masalanabo’s coronation was set for between July and August but was delayed when her brother, Prince Lekukela Modjadji, went to court to stop it.
The Modjadji Royal Council initially chose Lekukela as heir after the death of their mother, Queen Makobo Modjadji, in 2005. But in December 2024 President Ramaphosa officially recognised Masalanabo as Rain Queen.
Prince Lekukela, the elder sibling, still disputes the decision and insists he should lead the Balobedu nation.
When journalists asked Queen Masalanabo on Saturday about the date of her coronation, she laughed without answering.
Pictured above: Rain Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII at the Zulu Reed Dance, where she revived ties with the Zulu nation.
Image source: Facebook
