TZANEEN, Limpopo — President Cyril Ramaphosa hailed Phylia Lwandlamuni N’wamitwa II for her major work on women’s rights during her funeral service on Sunday. The Valoyi traditional leader died at age 85 in a Johannesburg hospital. Authorities granted her a Category Two Special Provincial Funeral.

Ramaphosa told mourners that N’wamitwa made vital contributions to clarifying women’s rights under South Africa’s Constitution and in traditional settings. “Hosi N’wamitwa was a pioneer in the fight for women’s rights,” he said in the eulogy.

Her death marks the end of a tenure defined by advocacy. N’wamitwa served as a senior traditional leader, challenging norms in customary law. Ramaphosa emphasized how her efforts bridged modern legal frameworks with cultural practices.

Earlier, Hosi Pheni Ngove, chairperson of the Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders, addressed the crowd. He pledged to carry forward her legacy. “Hosi N’wamitwa and other traditional leaders when they are doing positive things to their community, it brings back the status and dignity of our institutions,” Ngove said. “We will continue to emulate such kind of leaders in our midst.”

The service drew leaders and community members to Tzaneen, about 400 kilometers north of Johannesburg. N’wamitwa’s influence extended beyond Limpopo. She advocated for gender equality in royal successions and land rights, according to officials familiar with her work.

Ramaphosa’s tribute underscored broader tensions in South Africa. Traditional leaders often handle conflicts between customary law and constitutional guarantees of equality. N’wamitwa’s role helped resolve such disputes, officials said.

Ngove’s comments reflected widespread respect. The Limpopo House of Traditional Leaders plans initiatives inspired by her example. Community members at the funeral shared stories of her direct interventions in local disputes.

N’wamitwa rose to prominence in the Valoyi royal house. She assumed leadership amid debates over female regents. Her 40-year tenure included court battles that affirmed women’s eligibility for traditional thrones.

The provincial funeral category highlights her stature. Only select figures receive such honors, typically those with significant provincial impact. The ceremony followed protocols blending Christian rites and Valoyi customs.

Ramaphosa used the occasion to call for continued progress. He linked N’wamitwa’s achievements to national goals on gender equity. Attendees included provincial premiers and fellow traditional leaders.

Her passing comes as South Africa grapples with customary law reforms. Recent court rulings have expanded women’s roles in traditional councils. N’wamitwa’s precedent influenced these changes, according to legal experts.