Mohlomi: the South African Chief who loved his people!

Mohlomi, son of Monyane, who was the son of the great Bakoena Chief Monaheng, was born in the year 1720 in Fothane, a little village close to Bethlehem. As he was born, his grandfather, Chief Monaheng greeted him and said: ‘This boy is going to be a great chief one day. He will be the founder of many new villages.’

We do not know a lot about the first 13 years in life, but we know that Mohlomi had a great and impressive vision during his initiation process at the age of 13 in 1733.

He had a vision of a multitude speaking to him: ‘Go, rule by love, and look on your people as brothers and sisters.’

Later Mohlomi said that in this vision it became clear to him that he was called to become a chief and  doctor. More concretely it meant the following 5 missions: 

1. Become a chief, rule over your people well, and let them all be your brothers and sisters.
2. Always temper your actions with justice and sympathy.
3. Care for the needy people, especially for the children.
4. Care for the elderly man and women, so that they will know comfort in their old age.
5. Study medicine and treat the sick.

What a great program for a Chief! The leaders of South Africa could greatly benefit from learning from one of the great pioneers of this beautiful country.

Mohlomi grew up as an extremely intelligent and healthy young man. And stayed like this till he died in 1815 as an 95 year old wise man.

His health programme was the following.

1. He was known for a high degree of self-control.
2. He was extremely fit.
3. His credo was: no alcohol, no smoke, no dagga.
4. Drink water and milk.
5. Love your woman with all your heart.

So, who wants to follow? And become a South African leader with a great impact on society for many generations.