It was a glamorous and joyful occasion for the residents of Vhembe on Saturday, when the birthday celebrations of the Vhavenda King; Toni Mphephu Ramabulana; was held at Dzanani.

Dignitaries from different places around the country, including King Victor Thulare of the Bapedi tribe; Thovhele Vho-Kennedy Midiyavhathu Tshivhase; Thovhe Vho-Gole Mphaphuli; various chiefs; mayors from around Vhembe; MEC of Roads and Infrastructure, Jerry Ndou; business people; and pastors from different churches; were present to celebrate with the king.

According to King Toni Mphephu Ramabulana he had decided to celebrate his birthday with the community. Mphephu said that he was enjoying the day with the Vhavenda tribe.

“I am happy to celebrate my birthday with people around Vhembe,” he said. According to him it was good to celebrate his birthday and spend time with people from different communities around Venda.

"The king has served the people of the Vhavenda with dedication, commitment and integrity. The king displayed his leadership role with distinction. He has continued to inspire the people of Vhembe to work hard, and has constantly advocated the creation of a compassionate, caring society,” said King Victor Thulare of the Bapedi tribe.

Thulare said that Mphephu had promoted the values of honesty, tolerance, justice and respect across diverse communities, cultures and religious groups.

"He played a strong role in building bridges of peace, promoting reconciliation and unity. He displayed his outstanding role as leader. Mphephu has been described as “unifier,” Thulare added.

Khosi Vho-Makuya said that the celebration was a historic event. "A nation who does not have traditional leaders lacks advice, because the leaders provide wisdom," said Makuya.

He said that it was God who made the day possible for King Mphephu. He added that Mphephu is where he is today, because he obeys God's commandments. The programme directors included Phala FM morning drive show presenters, Majantibai, Mpho BTK Nefale and Jones “Tshigi” Netshipise. Guests were entertained by traditional dances, church choirs and some of the artists who performed items were Khakhathi, Malondolo, Trica Selala, Zozo, along with many other artists.