“We must be proud of who we are”

Traditional songs and dance performances were the order of the day during Dzata Heritage Day celebrations at Dzanani last Friday.

The ceremony was attended by Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha, Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba, mayors, traditional leaders and members of the community.

King Tony Mphephu Ramabulala praised community members who turned out in large numbers in support of the ceremony. He commended the Vhavenda and the government for the joint effort to preserve culture and to promote African traditional norms. He said culture was one of the main human tools that should not be left behind during the process of transformation.

“We must be proud of who we are, instead of being copycats of other peoples’ cultures. We must learn to love and appreciate our history, tradition and morality, because those are the basis from which a strong nation develops. Our indigenous languages should also be preserved for the benefit of the young generation and the community at large,” said Mphephu.

Premier Mathabatha said that Dzata was the place which, for many decades, served to preserve the rich history of the Vhavenda people and played host to such great leaders as Dimbanyika and others. “We have got no doubt that the heritage site of Dzata will continue to inspire our efforts of nation building and national reconciliation as an integral part of our transformation effort. We believe that by placing our heritage at the centre of development, we are bringing in the most important ingredient for success of our people in their forward march to a better life,” he said.

Dignitaries also had the opportunity to taste delicious indigenous food during the event.

Date:24 September 2015

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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