Newsroom

By Obed Makgoale

The Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD), Mzwanele Nyhontso has handed over title deeds to Rakwadu Claimant Community following the successful processing of their land claim by the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights.

This historic moment was officially celebrated at Farm Deelkraal 412 LT and the remaining extent of the farm Goedgelegen 566 LT, Mooketsi under Greater Letaba Municipality, Mopani District on 25 October 2024.

The Balobedu baga Rakwadu, a small tribe that originated from the same nomadic tribe as Balobedu ba ga Modjadji, accompanied by neighbouring traditional leaders, has welcomed the dignitaries in their traditional dancers to showcase their rich culture and heritage.

Thousand and two beneficiaries from 172 households of the Rakwadu community will return to their ancestral land almost 60 years after they were dispossessed of their rights to land due to past discriminatory laws and policies.

The department has acquired two productive farms measuring 2,400 hectares, mainly utilised for fruit production on the mentioned farms and the remaining extent at a total cost of R77, 725, 000.00.

“Our efforts here today are to restore the land to the rightful owners not merely the handing out of a title deed, but it is the restoration of the dignity of our people. When the land was taken, so too dignity was taken,” said Minister Nyhontso.

Deputy Chief Land Claims Commissioner, Francois Beukman reiterated Minister’s right to land in his message of support saying that, “this year marks 30 years since the enactment of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, offering the Commission a moment to reflect on its journey of restoring dignity and humanity. It’s a time to honour milestones, such as the success of the Rakwadu Community, while also looking ahead to an equitable future”.

MEC Kekana has encouraged the Rakwadu community to explore agricultural initiatives in an effort to enhance food security and foster economic growth.

The Rakwadu community’s land claim on the farm Deelkraal 412 LT was lodged by Chief Ntsauoa David Mohale on 7 December 1998. This claim represented the community and direct descendants of the original dispossessed persons who were forcibly removed from their land in 1964.

This historic handover was particularly significant as Chief Ntsauoa David Mohale, who initiated the claim, is still alive to witness the return of the community’s ancestral land. This moment marked a powerful milestone in the community’s journey towards land restitution and empowerment.

Mokibela Albert Ramawela, chairperson of the CPA, urged government and relevant stakeholders to continue with their support including post settlement support to keep the project running.