By Mafumane Tlhapi and Phenyo Mokgothu
The North-West University (NWU) mourns the passing of Mme Grace Masuku, an expert in indigenous knowledge systems. She was honoured with the NWU Chancellor Award in 2013.
Nkoko Grace Masuku was laid to rest on 18 June 2023, in her village of Lekutung near Moruleng in Rustenburg, North West. The 91-year-old indigenous knowledge holder and practitioner, a former principal and respected elder of the Bakgatla baa Kgafela Royal family, passed away on 12 June 2023.
Dr Motheo Koitsiwe, director of the NWU’s Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre, paid tribute to Mme Masuku at her memorial service.
Dr Motheo said she was an intellectual, an inspiration and a beacon of hope for many indigenous intellectuals such Dr Otsile Ntsoane. She also collaborated with many others such as Prof Wally Serote and Prof Hassan Kaya.
Mme Masuku was instrumental during the formative years of the IKS Centre and the development of the Bachelor degree in IKS. She also played a pivotal role in the formation of the Freedom Park in Pretoria and the launch of the National Recordal System in IKS in Moruleng.
Dr Motheo added that his PhD in IKS focusing on African indigenous astronomy (bolepa dinaledi) was inspired by Mme Masuku, and she connected him with Bakgatla Baa Kgafela in Mochudi, Botswana.
He said there is a social pact between the family of Mme Masuku, the Bakgatla Baa Kgafela Tribal Authority, the IKS Centre and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the legacy of Mme Masuku does not die.
More about the icon Mme Grace Masuku
Grace Masuku, who was also known as Namola Leuba (agent of poverty relief), will be fondly remembered for her profound understanding of indigenous astronomy and plants and her significant contributions as a nature conservationist.
She also devoted her life to Bojale – a rite of passage for young girls – ushering them to womanhood. This indigenous cultural practice and heritage are still prevalent among the Bakgatla Baa Kgafela in Moruleng and Botswana.
Throughout her life, Mme Masuku received more than 20 accolades, including the esteemed Ma - Afrika Award and the Order of the Baobab in Silver, recognising her outstanding achievements in the field of environmental conservation.
One of her notable projects, Letswanana, continues to yield medicinal herbs used for treating various ailments. Another prominent initiative, Podi - Boswa (meaning goat, our inheritance), has empowered more than 1 000 individuals by providing sustainable livelihoods through the production of leather products from previously discarded goat hides.
This initiative garnered support from prestigious organisations such as the World Conservation Union and the Agricultural Research Council, and it was also among the eight projects showcased by South Africa at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002.
While she was not an indigenous healer, she had a gift of spiritual heritage and possessed extensive knowledge of indigenous herbs, which formed her primary focus on the preservation of indigenous plants and nature conservation.
In 2006, a documentary titled "From Nkoko with Love," directed by Karin Slater, showcased Mme Masuku's life and philosophy on SABC 2. In 2008, the North West Parks and Tourism Board published a book titled The Legacy and Heritage of Grace Meiki Masuku, further commemorating her achievements.
Mme Grace Masuku will be remembered for her indefatigable spirit, amazing knowledge, wisdom and experience.
