A retired principal and hard-working traditional leader who has done much to develop a small rural village will be honoured by his community next week.

Nyadzani Samuel Ramagwede (87) of Damani Village has worked very hard to bring about development in Damani, near Thohoyandou. Among some of the developments he initiated are a modern clinic, a primary school, a stable water supply system, a crèche, electricity installation, a village church and the demarcation of a planned residential area.

The function to honour Ramagwede, who is commonly known as Vhavenda, will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2006, at Damani Primary School at 09:00.

“If I die now, I shall be happy because there is nothing more interesting than being honoured by your own people when you are still alive. I am now happy because I know the fruits of my hard labour are finally recognized by my community. I was also not aware that there are people who had been watching what I was doing for my community for many years,” said the thrilled Ramagwede, who was installed as sub-headman of Damani village in 1971.

His love of nature influenced him to forbid the cutting of trees in his village and the beauty of vegetation, coupled with the village water supply dam, has transformed Damani village into one of the most beautiful tourist spots in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo province.

According to Fhatuwani Likhetha, the organizer of the event, villagers felt there was a need to honour the old hero for his effort in building the community.

“The old man has played a vital role in the development of Damani village but his good works have never been recognised in public. As villagers, we were bound to do something rather than to honour him when he is no longer alive…”

Likhetha said the function would be blessed by the presence of high-profile academics, traditional leaders, politicians, learners and members of the immediate community.

Those who would like to know more about the function or to donate something can call Likhetha at 082 214 8519.