President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a Special Official Funeral Category 1 for His Majesty King Makhosoke II of the amaNdebele Nation, following his passing at the age of 65.
The Presidency confirmed that the funeral, which will include full military honours, will take place on Sunday at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.
King Makhosoke II, born Enock Makhosoke Mabhena, died on Tuesday after serving as the traditional leader of the amaNdebele akwaManala for four decades.
Ascending to the throne in the mid-1980s, he played a key role in preserving and promoting amaNdebele cultural heritage, traditional leadership systems, and community values across Mpumalanga and South Africa.
The amaNdebele Nation, particularly the Manala royal house, is widely recognised for its cultural significance, including its distinctive artwork, architecture and beadwork traditions.
Throughout his reign, King Makhosoke II was also involved in initiatives focused on community development, social cohesion and the protection of indigenous customs.
The South African government said the South African National Defence Force will provide ceremonial support in line with the protocols for a Special Official Funeral Category 1, a designation reserved for distinguished national figures.
President Ramaphosa extended condolences to the Royal Household, Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, the amaNdebele Nation and the Basotho Nation, from whom the Queen originates.
He has also instructed that the national flag be flown at half-mast from Saturday until Sunday evening in honour of the late monarch.
The funeral is expected to be attended by senior government leaders, traditional authorities, dignitaries and members of the public as the country pays tribute to a long-serving traditional leader.
