The Origin, The History and The Genesis of Batau

From mainline Swazi, Batau settled at Wakkerstroom and then Seokodibeng, a place that is now called Lake Chrissie. Now let us follow them as they live Lake Chrissie (Seokodibeng) going to Mokwena River (which today is called Crocodile River).

Batau arrived at Mokwena River around 1250 A.D. This happened after wanderings and brushups with Bakgaditsi (Batswana). They passed the areas around Mapulaneng under the rule of Matlebjane until they arrived at Mokwena River, right near Dullstroom Mountains (around Belfast). While there, Matlebjane gave birth to Mokwena. After the death of Matlebjane, Mokwena ruled and gave birth to Matlebjane II who ruled after his father's death. Matlebjane II lived long until he was beyond ninety years old. Because of his long life his sons were impatient of him continuing to live and rule on and on. We shall come back to this story of the sons of Matlebjane II later on.

Batau at Mokwena River were settled on a fertile plain that could support a relatively dense population with its much maize, vegetable and fruit.

Matlebjane II was truly one of the greatest outstanding African kings of all times. A megalomaniac of genius. He sought greatness in everything he did. He was more than a hero to his people - he was a god. Under his rule Batau were compact and enjoyed relative peace and stability. He instilled within Batau a culture of discipline and seriousness of purpose and was on the verge of conquering all the known areas around.

Matlebjane II was well known for calling all men in the village into his royal kraal to share with them his tough minded conservative outlook. The virtues Matlebjane II admired were all related to discipline and self discipline. He believed in people respecting authority and traditions. He believed in every person being true to his responsibilities – not running away from them. Above all Matlebjane II believed in the sober seriousness that marks a real man. As for women Matlebjane II never thought much of them or about them.

One gets the clear impression that there was no kidding around with Matlebjane II. He disliked disorder and wealth, which is having excess. He had vast powers over his people even the power of putting someone to death. But in most cases he never even once did that as he was constrained by custom and his believe of the sacredness of human life.

Matlebjane's excellent leadership proved so successful that his story amongst the consciousness and hearts of Batau endured more 500 years even to our times – today. The moral of the story about Matlebjane II's leadership is that serious things should not be taken lightly. Being a man means you are sober and serious when you make tough decisions, not shy away from your responsibilities.

But like all other mortals Matlebjane II finally died. But he died a violent death in his old age.

The Death of Matlebjane II the great King of Batau happened as follows: 3|Page