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Ramavhoya Clan — History & Meaning
Venda clan · Tshivenda
History & origin
Ramavhoya was a historical figure of the Singo (Ramabulana) royal line, one of the sons of King Munzhedzi Mpofu. When Munzhedzi Mpofu died (c. 1791), his senior son Rasithu (later known as Ramabulana) succeeded; however Ramavhoya, backed by his mother Nyamulanalwo, rose against his brother and seized the throne, enthroning himself at Tshirululuni. In the ensuing succession war Rasithu/Ramabulana allied with outside forces (the Batlokwa, and is associated in the records with Voortrekker leader Louis Trichardt's party) and Ramavhoya was driven from Tshirululuni and killed. The surname Ramavhoya thus derives from this Singo prince rather than from a totem animal.
Associated surnames
Surnames that share this clan: Ramabulana, Singo, Munzhedzi Mpofu, Rasithu.
We publish the full clan names (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.