KWAMHLANGA – The Mpumalanga province and the nation at large, particularly the AmaNdebele Nation, are in mourning following the passing of His Majesty Makhosonke II, who passed away at the age of 65 on 09 June 2026 at his home in KwaNdebele, Vaalbank, under the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality in Mpumalanga.
King Makhosonke II, born Enock Makhosonke Mabhena, was the reigning traditional leader of amaNdebele akwaManala and served on the throne for 40 years.
The Royal Family said the cause of death is believed to be natural.
“We are truly saddened by the passing of His Majesty King Enock Makhosonke II. We do not yet know the exact cause of his death. We were with him throughout the day, and he left his office around 5pm as usual. Nothing appeared to be wrong and there were no signs of illness. While the exact cause has not yet been confirmed, as a family we believe that the King passed away peacefully in his sleep,” said Royal Family spokesperson Mbulawa Mabhena.
King Makhosonke II served as the first chairperson of the National Kings and Queens Forum. He also chaired the African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) Northern Cape and Mpumalanga Rural Upliftment Trust.
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed sadness at the passing of the King, describing him as a pillar of national unity and a champion of development.
The President has also declared that the late King Makhosonke II will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 1, with military honours, on Sunday, 14 June 2026, at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga. The National Flag will be flown at half-mast from 13 June until the evening of 14 June 2026. President Ramaphosa reiterated his deep condolences to the Royal Household, Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali, the AmaNdebele Nation and the Basotho Nation from whom Her Majesty is descended, as they prepare to bid a final farewell to the King.
Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu expressed sadness at the passing of the King, describing him as a leader passionate about education, culture and community development.
“He was passionate about education and cultural preservation and dedicated his life to uplifting communities,” said Ndlovu.
The Speaker of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Makhosazane Masilela, conveyed condolences to the Royal Family and the AmaNdebele Nation, describing King Makhosonke II as a respected custodian of culture whose leadership promoted unity, cultural pride and development across Mpumalanga and South Africa.
COGHSTA MEC Speedy Mashilo also extended condolences to the AmaNdebele Royal Family, describing the King as a custodian of culture who served his people with dignity and wisdom.
“We are still shocked by the passing of King Makhosonke II. We believe this is God's will. We will carry on his legacy. May his soul rest in peace,” said community member Dumisani Velephi Masango.
King Makhosonke II reigned for 40 years and was widely known for promoting education, cultural preservation, land restitution and community development.
The Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature described his passing as the end of an era, saying his wisdom, humility and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of his people earned him respect across all sectors of society. “On behalf of the Legislature and the people of Mpumalanga, I wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty Queen Sekhothali Mabhena, the Royal Family, the AmaNdebele Traditional Council, the AmaNdebele Nation and all those whose lives were touched by the leadership and service of His Majesty,” said Masilela.
The Royal Family has requested privacy during the mourning period. King Makhosonke II will be remembered for his leadership, wisdom and contribution to the AmaNdebele Kingdom.
