Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders, Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo, has urged traditional leaders across South Africa to prioritise the transfer of cultural knowledge to younger generations in order to preserve African heritage and identity.
Speaking during a tribute to the late King Makhosonke II at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, on Sunday, Seatlholo reminded royal families of their responsibility as custodians of culture, tradition and indigenous knowledge.
The King of the Barolong Boo Rapulana in Lotlhakeng, near Mahikeng in the North West, cautioned against reducing African culture to singing, dancing and traditional ceremonies alone.
“We are more than that. We are spiritual people, diviners, scientists, business people and farmers. We represent every aspect of life,” said Seatlholo.
He stressed that societies that fail to pass on knowledge to future generations risk losing their identity and heritage.
“Any society that does not transfer knowledge faces its demise. We need to spend more time listening to our elders and ensuring that this knowledge is shared with our children and grandchildren,” he said.
Seatlholo also called on traditional leaders to promote unity within royal families and avoid public disputes over succession. He warned that prolonged chieftaincy battles often end up in court, creating opportunities for government intervention in traditional affairs.
He urged the family of the late King Makhosonke II to respect established succession processes and support the next leader, saying such unity is essential to preserving the dignity and sacred traditions of African royal households.
