THE Queen of Bakoena ba Mopeli Royal House in Namahadi Village, QwaQwa in the Free State, Neo Mopeli, has been appointed to the Presidential
Climate Commission as one of 25 commissioners selected by Mzansi's president.
The queen's appointment was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Saturday, 2 January 2025. The appointment marks a significant milestone in recognising the role of traditional leadership in shaping South Africa's climate response and just transition agenda.
Bakoena ba Mopeli Royal House warmly welcomed this appointment with deep gratitude and immense pride.
Royal house spokesman King Tsholo Mopeli said the Royal house is confident that Her Majesty will carry this responsibility with wisdom, humility and a deep sense of service, ensuring that the voices of communities and sustainability remain at the heart of decision-making.
"As the Royal family, we appreciate what President Cyril Ramaphosa has done. Our queen has the potential to serve at an even higher level. She is a young and brave woman, and we wish her all the best," he said
Queen Neo Mopeli told Daily Sun that this milestone fills her with pride and stands as an inspiration to the rural youth, to women and to traditional communities across the country.
"I'm deeply honoured and filled with joy to be entrusted by President Cyril Ramaphosa with the responsibility of serving on the Presidential Climate Commission.
"This appointment strengthens my commitment to champion climate justice, sustainable development and the protection of our people and future generations. Together, we can build a resilient, inclusive and climate-conscious South Africa," she said.
Meanwhile, Her Majesty is also a 40 Under 40 Philanthropy and Charity Award Winner, a Board member of the National Arts Council, and serves on the South African Weather Service, which highlights how she's redefining traditional leadership by bridging heritage, governance, social development and environmental stewardship.
"We believe her story presents a compelling opportunity for a feature that reflects both national leadership and community impact and how she's a blazing royal in various structures," said King Tsholo Mopeli.
| Source: Daily Sun
