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Mapolane Clan — History & Meaning
Sotho clan · Sesotho
Totem Like the Maphetla, no distinct animal totem is reliably and consistently recorded; left unstated to avoid fabrication
History & origin
The Mapolane (Bapolane) are, with the Maphetla and Baphuthing, traditionally cited as among the earliest Sesotho-speaking groups to cross the Drakensberg and settle the Caledon valley and southern highveld, where they encountered and partly absorbed the indigenous San. They form part of the foundational pre-Moshoeshoe substratum of the Basotho and were incorporated into the nation. They are often mentioned together with the Baphuthing and Maphetla as the 'first' Sotho of the region.
Associated surnames
Surnames that share this clan: Mopolane, Polane.
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.