Remembering Nkosi Thembelani Mtotywa: A life dedicated to tradition and unity

A traditional leader who dedicated his life to promoting culture and unifying communities has died after a short illness, leaving the community in mourning.

Nkosi Thembelani Mtotywa, 62, died recently, leaving the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa) in the Western Cape and local communities in mourning.

Contralesa Cape Metro spokesperson Nkosi Zwelidanile Galada described the late leader as someone who deeply loved his community and served as a unifier within both the organisation and among the people he led.

A custodian of culture, Mr Mtotywa previously served as chairperson of the Khayelitsha Initiation Forum, where he worked tirelessly to protect initiation sites from illegal invasion and to uphold cultural practices.

Chief Sindile Sigcawu said Mr Mtotywa played a unifying role in addressing social ills such as gender-based violence in the metro and surrounding areas. He added that the late leader supported and initiated several development projects in Khayelitsha and across the Western Cape.

“He helped grow the presence of Contralesa in the metro. He founded several projects and collaborated closely with the Amaxesibe chiefs. Last year, we worked together to introduce AmaXesibe alongside Dr Zweli Mkhize. He also led a campaign to engage with Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Deputy Minister Prince Burns-Ncamashe and was actively advocating for the recognition of Khoisan communities,” said Chief Sigcawu.

Chief Sigcawu and Contralesa members expressed their deep sadness over the passing of Mr Mtotywa, noting that he also played a key role in the organisation’s Men’s Sector.

“He played a vital role in strengthening our voice, and the government began to listen more because of his campaigns. We are truly disturbed by his passing,” he said.

The African National Congress also paid tribute, describing Mr Mtotywa as a veteran dedicated to serving the people, both in the liberation movement and in the broader community. The party stated he served in various structures across Khayelitsha.

His son, Vuko Mtotywa, announced that a memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 14, at the Site B Community Hall. He will be laid to rest in Xilinga Location, Ngqamakhwe, in the Eastern Cape.

Speaking about his father, Mr Mtotywa junior said he was a loving and compassionate man.

“He was a loving father who cared deeply for people. He always helped those who were less fortunate and taught us to respect and support others. We have lost a wonderful and caring father,” he said.

Find Vukani on TikTok and Instagram @ccmonlineza