KwaMhlanga – The atmosphere was sombre at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, where mourners, including family, traditional leaders, government representatives, and community members, converged at the memorial of the late Ndebele Monarch Makhosonke II.
The king, whose birth name was Enock Mabena, passed away on Monday, 9 June 2026, aged 65.
Today, Sunday, 14 June 2026, the King, who was on the throne for 40 years, was honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 1, which included military honours.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a eulogy on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Deputy President Mashatile also extended heartfelt condolences to the royal house and the Ndebele nation.
The Deputy President said the fallen monarch dedicated four decades to guiding his people with honour, humanity, and a deep dedication to cultural preservation and championing rural development.
He praised the King’s active role in empowering rural communities and bridging the gap between traditional leadership and the government.
“He viewed heritage as a living force that shapes identity and strengthens communities,” recalled Deputy President Mashatile.
“His Majesty’s presence strengthened his people.
“His wisdom guided them and his devotion united them, giving voice to their heritage and anchoring their unity.”
Deputy President Mashatile added: “Since 2010, when Professor Nhlapo affirmed the right lineage of the AmaNdebele, King Makhosonke II carried the Mendler with dignity, bridging ancestral memory and modern progress.”
The Deputy President urged the Ndebele nation to preserve the king’s legacy.
“King Makhosonke II was a transformative monarch who prioritised education and health for the betterment of his people, guided by ancestral wisdom,” said.
“His initiatives aim to enhance the future of the kingdom while ensuring the physical and spiritual well-being of those he led.”
Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu said: “Today we bow our heads in sorrow as we mourn and pay our last respect to a fallen king, INgwenyama, uMakhosonke wesibili khona la KwaMhlanga e Solomon Mahlangu Stadium. Rest In Peace Ngwenyama, Bayede Ngwenyama.”
The King is survived by the mother of the Ndebele nation, Queen Sekhothali Mabena (née Seeiso).
King Mabena and Queen Sekhothali tied the knot in the Ndebele traditional ceremony in 2019.
Queen Sekhothali is a princess from the Royal House of Lesotho, niece of Lesotho King Letsie III, and daughter of Prince Masupha Seeiso.
However, according to the amaNdebele custom, the actual interment of King Makhosonke II, which includes traditional rituals, remains a secret known only to a select few from the Royal Family.
