The Balobedu Royal Family convened on 2 February 2025, in a momentous meeting which highlighted the legal recognition of Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The first official gathering of the Royal Family and Council with Her Majesty took place in Midrand and was attended by prominent family members, including Mohale, Mokoto, Mahasha, Modika, Malematja, Ramafalo, and the namesake Modjadji.
During this inaugural meeting, the discussions revolved around crucial matters concerning the rich history of the Balobedu Royal Nation, the laws of succession, and the governance structures integral to the community. Importantly, the family resolved to create a Balobedu Royal Executive Committee tasked with establishing necessary royal governance frameworks, including the Balobedu Queen’s Council and various sub-committees.
The assembly also acknowledged the vacancy created in the Modjadji Traditional Council with the Queen’s ascent to the throne. It affirmed the appointment of William Phetole Mokoto as the Chief or senior traditional leader for the council, with an application for his official recognition having been submitted to Dr Phophi Ramathuba, Premier of Limpopo.
In a significant move towards structured monarchy, plans were laid for the formation of the Balobedu Queen’s Council, comprising all chiefs and senior traditional leaders within the Bolobedu area. The family entrusted the Royal Executive Committee with discussions regarding the date for the coronation, engaging with Honourable Velinkosini Hlabisa, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, and Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba.
At the heart of the gathering was a renewed commitment to nation-building, with Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII expressing her dedication to governing in consultation with the Royal Family and the newly formed councils. Her Majesty articulated a vision focused on moral, social, and economic development within Balobedu, emphasising education, agriculture, cultural tourism, and the safeguarding of the rights of women, children, and individuals with disabilities.
Her Majesty conveyed heartfelt gratitude towards Ramaphosa, Hlabisa, and Ramathuba, acknowledging their roles in her historic recognition as the seventh queen of the Balobedu Royal Nation.
#Conviction