FS urged to erect Manthatisi statue

By Libuseng Nyaka

QWAQWA- Cogta deputy minister Prince Zolile Burns Ncamashe has called on the Free State government to emulate KwazuluNatal, which has erected a statue in honour of King Shaka, and do the same for Queen Manthatisi.

Ncamashe said this when passing a message of support at the memorial lecture of Queen Manthatisi of the Batlokoa at Manthatisi High school last Thursday.He also emphasized the need for a befitting celebration which will leave a living legacy in the area.

“The tangible projects, among others, should include improved socio-economic development and service delivery in this community, as well as increased tourism that will bring economic benefits to this community by reducing unemployment and poverty in this community, not to mention eradication of social ills in our society.

“Last week we were in KwaZulu -Natal where King Msizulu Ka Zwelithini, president Ramaphosa and premier of KZN Thami Ntuli, unveiled the statue of King Shaka. It was a great occasion attended by multitudes of people who celebrated not only King Shaka but the history of the Zulu nation as a whole. The unveiling of the King Shaka statue contributes to driving the economy of KZN; it will no doubt bring cultural tourism.

“Let us emulate such practices and do the same with Queen Manthatisi. I emphasise that the name of Manthatisi is equally big and of significance compared to all other heroes and heroines of our country.

He said the hosting of the memorial lecture was a welcome initiative.

“I have also been informed about supporting initiatives on building a house and distributing school uniforms and other essential stuff to identified learners at Manthatisi secondary school. While these gestures are appreciated, the name Manthatisi is far bigger than this. More impactful initiates need to be embarked upon. We need to see buildings and other entities renamed after her. The foundation has been laid already; we gathered here today at Manthatisi Senior Secondary which is named after Queen Manthatisi.”He also congratulated organisers for visionary celebration and hoped there would be more celebrations of this nature in various kingships and queenships.

“A statutory leadership at national level. A huge responsibility to represent the aspiration and everything that embodies the institution of traditional leadership at all levels. The occasion is also significant because queen Manthatisi is among our female traditional leaders who will be accorded this great honour. Indeed an epitome of selfless leadership, a rare trait that needs to be adumbrated by all generations.”

Cogta deputy minister Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe at the memorial lecture of Queen Manthatisi of Batlokoa held in Qwaqwa.

Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi son leaders Thabo Milton Seatlholo said there is a number of projects that are lined up for interventions and to develop the community.

“In terms of which areas need development, we need to do feasibility studies. You cannot go and put a shopping complex when people do not need it. You cannot start an agricultural project when people do not do such. There needs to be engagements with the people, consultation with the community and you get to understand what is it that they need.”