The first queen of the Korana Royal House was crowned during an inauguration ceremony in Kimberley.
During this ceremony on 6 August, Princess Shimida Katz, eldest daughter of the late King Josiah Katz, was recognised and celebrated as her father’s successor.
The late king was the recognised leader of the Korana Royal House and was one of the signatories of the Christian African Union. He assisted in returning the remains of Sara Baartman from Europe and to re-bury her in South Africa. He died on 4 March 2021 and his eldest child – a woman – nowhas succeeded him.
Women are taking up various leadership positions, and as Women’s Month is being celebrated, this shines a light on the historical, auspicious ceremony; acknowledging a modern-day woman stepping into a conservative and traditional authoritative position predominantly male-led.
When the newly crowned queen addressed the crowd, she reiterated that her work was not to be served but to serve; and that she wanted to be a voice to the voiceless.
She pointed in the direction of a picture of her father, saying: “I will follow in my father’s footsteps, as he was the most humble leader I ever met.”
At the commencement of the ceremony, the sound of blowing horns echoed as Princess Belinda Pietersen ushered Princess Katz into the formal proceedings, while reciting ceremony praise in Khoekhoe language.
Ceremonies included Katz being dressed by Pietersen in traditional attire for an indigenous queen. She received traditional gifts and accessories from various chiefs, and also from Queen Chief Ouma Katrina Esau.
In attendance were, amongst others chiefs, princesses, a pastoral couple from Cape Town, friends, family, and various Khoisan community members.
