By 
PRETORIA — The amaNdebele nation is in mourning following the passing of His Majesty Ingwenyama Makhosonke II Mabena, the King of the amaNdebele nation in South Africa. The King, who also served as a vital leader on the national stage, passed away recently, prompting a wave of condolences and tributes from across the political and cultural spectrum.
Official statements released on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, confirmed the departure of the monarch, who had been on the throne for four decades.
A Lifelong Custodian of Heritage and Land Rights
King Makhosonke II ascended to the throne in 1986, navigating the amaNdebele people through highly turbulent times. His reign was marked by a steadfast commitment to preserving the identity, culture, language, and unity of his people.
According to a media statement issued by the Afrika Mayibuye Movement, the King’s tenure included significant legal battles over traditional leadership. His position as the senior Ingwenyama was ultimately affirmed following rigorous determinations by the relevant Commission and subsequent court rulings.
“He embodied the dignity and wisdom of traditional leadership, serving as a bridge between ancestral legacies dating back centuries to the time of King Musi and the contemporary struggles for true emancipation in post-1994 South Africa,” the Afrika Mayibuye Movement stated.
The movement highlighted his fierce advocacy for:
- Land Restoration: Being at the forefront of restitution for ancestral lands taken away by colonial settlers.
- Resource Equity: Championing equitable benefits from the rich mineral resources within Ndebele territories.
- Cultural Revival: Promoting heritage through key cultural events, such as the annual King Silamba commemorations.
National Leadership and Educational Legacy
Beyond his immediate kingdom, King Makhosonke II played a central role in South Africa’s broader governance structure. He served in the national structure of Kings and Queens that advises the government on issues of royal and traditional leadership. Furthermore, until his passing, he was the inaugural Chairperson of the SA Kings Forum, a coordinating body supported by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.
Political leaders have widely acknowledged his profound impact on education and social welfare. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Democratic Alliance (DA) Leader Geordin Hill-Lewis expressed deep sadness over the monarch’s passing.
“King Makhosoke II worked to raise the profile and esteem of education, and of the isiNdebele language,” Hill-Lewis said. “He facilitated and created platforms for university students to study and develop isiNdebele. He will be remembered for his humanitarian work in support of the most vulnerable and school children.”
Condolences and Next Steps
The passing of the monarch has left what leadership figures describe as a “significant void” in South African traditional leadership.
The DA leadership confirmed that arrangements are being made over the coming days to visit the Royal Kingdom to formally pay their respects and extend condolences to the royal family.
Similarly, the Afrika Mayibuye Movement extended its heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family, the amaNdebele nation, and the Manala Mbhongo Traditional Council. Reflecting on a consultation process held with the King in July 2025, the movement noted that his insights on self-reliance and economic justice would continue to shape their path forward.
Funeral arrangements and official mourning protocols are expected to be announced by the Royal Kingdom in due course.
