On the cold Sunday afternoon of May 10th 2009, just after we buried my father, his boys were counselled at the male-only Kgotla. I was joined by my brother: we stood in front of the seated elders, who appeared to be enjoying the fire. I remember because there was an argument between some of the elders as to where my brother and I should stand owing to the not so pleasant smoke.
In the middle, flanked by Ralekgotla, senior elders from the Kgotla, as well as my father’s maternal uncle, was the very tall, soft-spoken Rre Obanka Mokhai, my mother’s elder brother, my uncle. Looking at me and my brother, in a soft voice, he said a few words. He advised us to take care of his sister. He also advised us to seek guidance from him as well as elders in the Kgotla at anytime.
Today, his son, Super, will stand before male elders at the Kgotla, and be advised to take care of his sisters and seek advice from not only his uncle but elders in the Kgotla at anytime.
Obanka joins his dear wife, Mma Kgalalelo, who was buried just 4 months ago. My thoughts are with his family: particularly his beloved children, grandchildren, his mother, my mother and his other siblings.
Robala ka kagiso Rremogolo, you have sown the seed.
Blessing Kgosi e tsile Kgasa 