Langalakhe Mabena
THE King Mzilikazi annual commemorations, affectionately known as Umgubho weNkosi uMzilikazi to celebrate the life of the first Ndebele King are in full swing.
Thousands have gathered at Mhlahlandlela Heritage Site in Matopos for the 22nd edition of the commemoration, which also celebrates the rich Ndebele culture. The event is organised by Mthwakazi ka Mzilikazi Cultural Association and Iqoqo lamaNtungwa and other affiliated organisations. People started to gather at the Large City Hall this morning.
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. Ntando Ndlovu, who is one of the organisers of the event said all was in full swing.
“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 is 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 died 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.
