The Batlôkwa kingdom, a faction of the Bakgatla people within the Bantu-speaking Tswana communities, boasts a rich and complex history. This kingdom, also known as the Sotho-Tswana, is distinguished by its unique dialects, totemic practices, and particular architectural marvels like round huts with conical thatch roofs. Their distinctiveness extends to their clothing, contrasting with the 'Nguni' tribes, and their tradition of constructing with stone in certain terrains.
Historically, the Basotho and Batswana frequently witnessed divisions, primarily due to leadership disputes. Such disagreements often led to splinter groups separating from the main clan and establishing a new tribe, usually adopting the dissatisfied leader's name.
The Batlôkwa trace their origins back to the northern regions, potentially the Great Lakes of East Africa. Their southward migration brought them through western Zimbabwe. However, the generalization of such African communities can be misleading. Scholar Paul Maylam warns against oversimplifying and stresses the diversity and intricacies of African societies.
The intricate lineage of the Batlôkwa began after the death of Masilo, which gave rise to the Hurutshe and Kwena clans. The Batlôkwa hail from the Hurutshe clan, tracing their roots to Mokgatla, founder of the BaKgatla, and Tabane. Tabane fathered numerous children, each of whom went on to form distinct groups.
Perhaps the most notable figure in Batlôkwa history is Kgosihadi Manthatisi, remembered as one of the most formidable military leaders of the early 19th century. During the tumultuous period of the Mfecane wars, she commanded the Tlôkwa people, known in English literature as the Mantatees after her name. Faced with adversities from neighboring tribes, Manthatisi's leadership prowess became evident as she led raids, expanding the Tlôkwa's territory as far as present-day Botswana. Despite her eventual defeats, her legend lived on. The English, impressed and perhaps intimidated by her military might, dubbed all Sotho-Tswana raiders “boo-Mmanthatisi” or the “Mantatee Horde”.
Manthatisi's son, Kgosi Sekonyela, later took control of the Batlôkwa's structures and military. His reign, however, was marked by continuous rivalry with Moshoeshoe, the founder of the Basotho kingdom. While Moshoeshoe's diplomatic skills earned him many followers, Sekonyela's aggressive tendencies alienated many. The latter's downfall came in November 1853 when Moshoeshoe defeated the Batlôkwa ba Mokotleng.
In retrospect, the Batlôkwa kingdom stands as a testament to the vibrant