VILLA LIZA, BOKSBURG The vibrant spirit of tradition and community development took centre stage last night as the Ekurhuleni Traditional Council, in partnership with the Mahlangu Chieftaincy, hosted a highly anticipated year-end function at the prestigious Villa Liza venue.
The event, held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, was more than a celebration; it was a powerful demonstration of collaboration between traditional leadership, the private sector, and government bodies, all united in their commitment to the people of Ekurhuleni.
Dignitaries, community leaders, and stakeholders gathered in a hall adorned with cultural regalia, reflecting the rich heritage of the region. The air was filled with a palpable sense of achievement and shared purpose as the event highlighted the year’s successes and laid the foundation for future initiatives.
In his keynote address, a representative of the Ekurhuleni Traditional Council emphasised the critical role of traditional leadership in modern governance and social cohesion. “Our mission extends beyond preserving our customs. It is about actively guiding and improving the lives of our people. Tonight, we celebrate the partnerships that make this possible,” he stated.
The Mahlangu Chieftaincy echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of unity and the preservation of cultural identity while embracing progress and development. “On behalf of all who attended, we extend our profound gratitude to the Mahlangu Chieftaincy for their pivotal role in the event’s resounding success. Your leadership and support were the foundation upon which this wonderful day was built. A special and heartfelt thank you must also go to Veliswa Kakaza, whose dedication and hard work behind the scenes ensured that every detail was executed flawlessly. Thank you for making it possible!”
The function served as a tribute to the community’s resilience and the collaborative efforts that have driven various local projects throughout the year.
A significant feature of the evening was the acknowledgment of the key stakeholders whose support has been instrumental.
The event was proudly supported by a coalition of leading organisations, including:
• Old mutual: They were the pillars of the event as they made it possible that the event becomes a success in every way
• AVBOB: Providing essential services and community support.
• Nedbank: Driving financial literacy and economic empowerment initiatives.
• Ekurhuleni Skills Development: Equipping the youth and unemployed with critical skills for the job market.
• SANCA (South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence): Championing health and wellness programmes within the community.
• Department of Sports, Arts, and Agriculture: Fostering talent, preserving culture, and supporting food security projects.
• AYDF (Assuming this is a local youth or development forum): Ensuring the representation and involvement of the younger generation in development matters.
The collaboration between these diverse entities underscores a holistic approach to community development, addressing economic, social, and health-related challenges simultaneously.
The evening was a blend of formal proceedings and vibrant celebration, featuring traditional music, dance performances, and a gala dinner. It provided a valuable networking platform, strengthening the bonds between community leaders and their partners in development.
As the event concluded, the overwhelming consensus was one of optimism. The 2025 Year-End Function successfully celebrated a year of tangible progress and set a collaborative and ambitious tone for the year to come, promising continued growth and empowerment for the Ekurhuleni community.
