Prince Lekukela Modjadji ascends to Balobedu royal family throne News24
Comments A 13-year-old Masalanabo Modjadji during the Motsepe Foundation national day of prayer on 25 November 2018 in Johannesburg. Credit: Gallo Images
Prince Lekukela Modjadji, the son of the late Rain Queen Makobo Modjadji, has been appointed king of the Balobedu nation, 16 years after her death.
The government recognised the Balobedu queenship in 2016, paving the way for his 16-year-old sister, Masalanabo, to become Rain Queen VII.
His appointment shocked many in the Limpopo tribe who expected Masalanabo to ascend to the throne at the age of 18.
The heir to the Balobedu throne has been matrilineal and all heirs are referred to as rain queens.