Balobedu Celebrates as Princess Masalanabo Ascends as Rain Queen Modjadji VII
The Balobedu nation is welcoming a new chapter in its storied history as President Cyril Ramaphosa officially recognizes Princess Masalanabo Modjadji as Queen Modjadji VII. This marks a historic milestone for the only legally recognized queenship in South Africa.
Also Read: Zulu Queen Ntokozo Mayisela-Zulu Breaks Silence on Royal Event Absences
Presidential Recognition
The announcement, made by Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, confirms the legal acknowledgment of Queen Masalanabo following her recent 18th birthday.
“Her Royal Highness, Prince Mpapatla Modjadji, served as regent until the queen came of age. Now, in accordance with Section 12(8)(a) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act of 2019, the rightful successor must be recognized by the President,” Magwenya stated.
Masalanabo, the sole daughter of the late Queen Makobo Modjadji, was first recognized as the heir to the throne in 2016 by former President Jacob Zuma. However, her status as a minor delayed her formal ascension.
President Ramaphosa expressed his admiration for the cultural significance of the queenship.
“The recognition of Queen Modjadji VII introduces a new chapter and is a moment of great significance to the rich history of the Balobedu Nation,” Ramaphosa said.
He also pledged governmental support for the socio-economic development of the region under her reign.
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition
According to Zimoja, the Balobedu Queenship has been an enduring institution for over 400 years, tracing its lineage back to Maselekane Modjadji I. The queenship, rooted in rainmaking powers and spiritual significance, survived colonial and apartheid-era setbacks, including its downgrading to a chieftaincy in 1972.
Masalanabo became the rightful heir after her mother, Queen Makobo, passed away in 2005. At just three months old, she inherited a legacy intertwined with the control of rainfall, a symbolic power that has defined the Modjadji dynasty.
Challenges and Controversies
The path to Masalanabo’s ascension has not been without disputes. In 2022, her uncle and regent, Prince Mpapatla Modjadji, controversially named her brother, Prince Lekukela Modjadji, as king. This decision contradicted longstanding traditions that exclude male heirs from the throne.
Masalanabo’s foster parent and advisor, Mathole Motshekga, contested the appointment through an urgent court application, which was eventually struck off the roll. Despite these challenges, her recognition by the President reaffirms the continuation of the Balobedu queenship tradition.
A Nation Awaits
The Balobedu Royal Council expressed excitement about this new chapter, with Secretary-General Gabriel Rasebotsa announcing an upcoming press briefing to address lingering questions. The council and its people are optimistic about Queen Modjadji VII’s reign.