Heritage site under threat because of mining

Moshabi Selowa

Ntshwaneng is one of rich places when coming to culture, the place of African herbs which has been used long ago.

We heard that place’s real mame is Ga-Makete, which is named long ago in the 18th centuries during the second world war.

The man called Makete was a traditional healer who was having more livestock particularly cattle, which was actually black culture investment. After Sekhukhune realized his quality of traditional healing he made him Bush doctor during war. He was strong and powerful when coming to traditional herbs, Makete base on delaying enemies during attack. ”

He arrived at the place after being chased away by Magakala Chief because of his cattle claiming that Makete’s cattle takes lot of grazing land.

The western part towards Mmatakane mountain is where it is named after that traditional healer/Doctor.

The small hill were the statue of Kgoshi kgolo Sekhukhune placed, there is a big cave which we hear says was used to hide during attack by colonists.

Kgoshi kgolo Sekhukhune was challenged by Kgoshi Mampuru at that place, lot Pedi kingdom history at Ga-makete place since 1847 and before which involves historical living which is much different to now adays .

Today same village is on fire when mine companies engage community about mining program, so many chiefs starting to interfere, the program by claiming place Ntshwaneng as whole more possibility of losing the heritage site of Tjate in Limpopo and the government, in department of art and culture engage community with development of heritage site in Limpopo.

Community members want mine to take place but elders don’t like mining operations in their community.

Battle still continue more meeting are held and still mobilizing community members to provide community committee members with solid agreement.