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Batau Clan — History & Meaning
Pedi clan · Sepedi
Totem Lion (Sotho/Tswana: Tau)
History & origin
The Batau ('people of the lion') are a Sotho-Tswana clan found in Limpopo, including within Sekhukhuneland. One documented Batau line traces an origin linked to Swazi/eastern groups, moving northward (toward the Lake Chrissie/Wakkerstroom area) and, after the disruptions of the Mfecane/Difaqane (early 19th century) including conflict with Mzilikazi, settling in what became Sekhukhuneland in present-day Limpopo. The Batau were among the many groups that formed part of and gave allegiance to the Pedi empire.
Associated surnames
Surnames that share this clan: Tau, Phasha, Maila, Lehong.
We publish the full diboko (clan praises) only once we can verify them against documented tradition — for this clan they are still being confirmed. If you can share an authoritative version, corrections are warmly welcomed.