Langalakhe Mabena
The organisers of the King Mzilikazi annual commemoration, affectionately known as Umgubho weNkosi uMzilikazi have revealed that all is set for people to celebrate the life of the first Ndebele King.
Thousands are expected to gather at Mhlahlandlela Heritage Site in Matopos for the 22nd edition of the commemoration, which also celebrates the rich Ndebele culture and identity.
The event is organised by Mthwakazi ka Mzilikazi Cultural Association and Iqoqo lamaNtungwa and other affiliated organisations. This year, the celebrations will start with a Gala dinner, which will be held at Grand Palm Lodge on September 6.
The gala will be spiced up with performances by celebrated legendary poet Albert Nyathi, Ramsey K and the Big Ray band, Thaluso Da Poet, Babongile Skhonjwa as well as various traditional groups. An Arts and craft exhibition and auction will also be held at the gala. The major celebrations will then take place on September 7.
Ntando Ndlovu, who is one of the organisers of the event said preparations were running smoothly and all is set for the commemoration.
“Preparations are going well, we have already cleared the Mhlahlandlela Heritage Site, which is the venue for the commemoration. We are still reaching out to potential partners and sponsors as part of the preps.
“The guests of honours have confirmed to be part of the event and there will be delegates from the local and international communities. We are also expecting local chiefs and public officials to grace the event as guests so that they bless the activities.
“This year, we will start with a gala dinner on September 6. The major event on the following day, will start with a cultural parade march from Matshobana to City Hall. The much anticipated event is an opportunity yoku Vunula (to wear traditional gear) and celebrate our culture, whether one is Nguni, Kalanga, Xhosa, Venda or any other tribe.
It will be a day to showcase our cultural heritage and identity. Of paramount importance, the event draws huge crowds including tourists from South Africa, Eswatini. Lesotho, amongst other countries. This is in line with the Ministry of Tourism’s push for cultural tourism in Zimbabwe,” said Ndlovu.
King Mzilikazi was born near Mkuze in Zululand in 1790. When he passed-on on September 9, 1868, the son of Matshobana kaMangethe and Nompethu KaZwide, was laid to rest at Mhlahlandlela, Entumbane cave in Matobo, 20 kilometres from Bulawayo.
