Makhado Local Municipality, located in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, is distinguished by its rich cultural diversity, historical significance, and distinctive blend of urban and rural settings.
The municipality, named for Chief Makhado, a notable Venda chieftain, contains a number of settlements, each of which contributes to the area’s unique tapestry.
Makhado’s strategic location is one of its distinguishing traits. The municipality, which is nestled in the Soutpansberg Mountains, has a magnificent location that attracts both residents and visitors.
The Soutpansberg range not only adds to the region’s natural beauty, but it also impacts the temperature, generating a mild and pleasant atmosphere all year.
Makhado is an economic hub for a variety of businesses, including agriculture, mining, and tourism.
The region’s fertile soils support a large agricultural sector, with crops such as maize, vegetables, and fruits grown.
Furthermore, mining activities, particularly centered on coal and minerals, are located in the municipality and contribute significantly to the local economy.
Makhado’s cultural landscape is profoundly anchored in the Venda people’s traditions, who make up a sizable section of the population.
The vibrant cultural practices, music, dancing, and art represent the community’s strong heritage.
Visitors to Makhado can immerse themselves in local practices, deepening their understanding of the region’s unique cultural tapestry.
Makhado’s development is heavily reliant on education, with the municipality holding a number of schools and educational institutions.
These institutions not only give great education to local youth but also add to the region’s total intellectual wealth.
Makhado’s commitment to empowering its citizens and ensuring a sustainable future is seen in the emphasis on education.
Makhado’s infrastructure development is a constant priority, with continual attempts to improve transportation, healthcare, and public services.
The municipality’s goal is to establish an environment that encourages growth and improves the quality of life for its citizens.
This dedication may be seen in the different projects and activities undertaken to serve the community’s changing needs.
Makhado’s tourism business is thriving, attracting people with its natural features, cultural experiences, and historical monuments.
Hiking paths, nature reserves, and picturesque vistas are among the outdoor activities available in the community.
Historical sites like the Thathe Vondo Sacred Forest and the old village of Louis Trichardt provide views into the past, enriching the visiting experience.
Population
 (2011)
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|
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 • Total | 516,031 |
 • Density | 62/km2 (160/sq mi) |
Despite the numerous beneficial qualities of Makhado, the municipality has issues that are typical to many South African localities.
Unemployment, poverty, and infrastructural deficits necessitate continual attention and collaboration from government agencies, local companies, and community residents.
Makhado aspires to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for everybody by confronting these difficulties head on.
The 2001 census divided the municipality into the following main places:
Place | Code | Area (km2) | Population | Most spoken language |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bungeni | 90801 | 20.67 | 18,192 | Tsonga |
Davhana | 90802 | 60.93 | 6,361 | Venda |
Dzanani | 90803 | 650.70 | 75,746 | Venda |
Funyufunyu | 90804 | 2.86 | 3,580 | Venda |
Hlanganani | 90805 | 181.14 | 11,156 | Venda |
Khomanani | 90806 | 17.45 | 14,337 | Tsonga |
Kutama | 90807 | 150.44 | 24,688 | Venda |
Louis Trichardt | 90808 | 21.18 | 11,014 | English, Venda, Tsonga |
Madombidzha | 90809 | 0.39 | 806 | Venda |
Madzivhandila | 90810 | 9.77 | 13,051 | Venda |
Maelula | 90811 | 2.80 | 5,652 | Venda |
Magadani | 90812 | 1.59 | 1,875 | Venda |
Makushu | 90814 | 0.69 | 1,207 | Venda |
Masakona | 90815 | 73.39 | 7,033 | Venda |
Mashamba | 90816 | 89.76 | 13,898 | Venda |
Mashau | 90817 | 71.04 | 24,794 | Venda |
Masia | 90818 | 120.31 | 8,689 | Venda |
Mkhensani | 90819 | 12.68 | 16,210 | Tsonga |
Mudimeli | 90820 | 1.82 | 3,055 | Venda |
Muila | 90821 | 5.63 | 5,006 | Northern Sotho |
Mukhari | 90822 | 24.49 | 20,007 | Tsonga |
Mulambilu | 90823 | 2.78 | 3,307 | Venda |
Mulima | 90824 | 288.99 | 17,245 | Venda |
Ndouvhada | 90825 | 1.66 | 1,427 | Venda |
Nesengani | 90826 | 7.89 | 12,235 | Venda |
Nthabalala | 90827 | 161.96 | 15,665 | Venda |
Rabali | 90828 | 6.20 | 8,701 | Venda |
Ramalamula | 90829 | 36.48 | 5,924 | Venda |
Ribungwani | 90830 | 4.93 | 3,071 | Tsonga |
Rungulani | 90831 | 6.05 | 7,043 | Tsonga |
Sinthumule | 90832 | 72.28 | 47,472 | Venda |
Soutpansberg | 90833 | 18.81 | 7,512 | Tsonga |
Tiyani | 90834 | 11.75 | 11,620 | Tsonga |
Tshikota | 90835 | 42.88 | 4,099 | Venda |
Tshimbupfe | 90836 | 107.89 | 17,538 | Venda |
Tshiovhe | 90837 | 3.93 | 2,770 | Venda |
Vuwani | 90838 | 13.58 | 19,770 | Venda |
Remainder of the municipality | 90813 | 6,262.90 | 25,319 | Tsonga |
Finally, Makhado Local Municipality is a dynamic and evolving territory defined by its distinct blend of culture, history, and economic activities.
Makhado is a tempting destination for both inhabitants and visitors looking to explore the many offerings of South Africa’s Limpopo Province, thanks to its commitment to development and natural beauty.