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The South African Royal Princesses Network (SARPN) gathered at Freedom Park on 15 November to launch a new chapter of leadership and strategy. The event focused on tackling gender-based violence (GBV), drug abuse, and long-term community upliftment.
Princesses from traditional royal houses across the country, including the Eastern Cape, met to establish fresh goals and elect a new leadership team.
The Imbizo also featured wellness sessions and empowerment talks led by Prof Katerere of Niselo, who introduced practical tools for self-sufficiency and community resilience.
What Happened at the Imbizo
The national Imbizo, hosted in partnership with Freedom Park, marked a turning point for SARPN. The royal women resolved to:
- Strengthen their organisational structure
- Expand their role in GBV advocacy
- Promote cultural leadership and policy engagement
- Develop sustainable local business models
- Empower rural and township communities
Each princess committed to a leadership portfolio to drive the Network’s goals forward.
New SARPN Leadership Appointments
| Role | Princess | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Chairperson | Princess Nandile Ndamase | amaMpondo Kingdom, Mfundisweni (EC) |
| Secretary General | Princess Eurika Mogane | Mogane Traditional Council |
| Head of Programmes | Princess Thandisizwe Nandipha Bhushula | Bhushula Family, Lusikisiki (EC) |
| Head of Business & Community Dev. | Princess Tshegofatso Maubane | Bakgatla Ba Mocha, North West |
| Head of Events & Conferences | Princess Selowe Modjadji | Balobedu Queendom |
| Head of Policy & Advocacy | Princess Mongwadi Langa | Langa Royal House, Limpopo |
| Head of Finance & Admin | Princess Lusanda Makinana | Xhosa Kingdom of Phalo, AmaRhadebe (AmaNdlambe) |
| Additional Member | Princess Malesedi Rakgokong | Venda Kingdom |
Local Voices, National Impact
Princess Nandile Ndamase’s appointment as Chairperson signals a growing Eastern Cape voice in national cultural leadership.
“This is not just symbolic — we are ready to bring real solutions to our communities,” said one delegate.
The SARPN plans to lead targeted campaigns, skills programmes, and advocacy work aimed at improving conditions in rural and peri-urban areas, especially where women and youth are most vulnerable.
What’s Next for SARPN?
The Network will now:
- Launch pilot empowerment programmes in the Eastern Cape and North West
- Partner with local schools, clinics, and NGOs
- Develop funding pathways for women-led businesses
- Host quarterly progress forums in traditional communities
In the coming months, SARPN is expected to release a public action plan and share regional success stories to inspire broader participation.
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Royal Princesses gather at Freedom Park, united in purpose and tradition.
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Author: Quan Dambuza | Pondoland Times
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