BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE – Thousands turned up for the Mzilikazi Day celebrations in Zimbabwe to pay homage to King Mzilikazi, who is credited with founding the Ndebele kingdom.
Organised by the Mthwakazi kaMzilikazi Cultural Association, the annual celebrations included colourful street processions around the city, accompanied by singing and dancing. Amatshitshi (young maidens) danced in their traditional attire, while Amabutho (regimental groups) marched in memory of the late King Mzilikazi, who passed away on 5 September 1868.
The celebration later shifted to Mhlahlandlela, King Mzilikazi’s last royal capital, located about 22 kilometres from Bulawayo. This year’s celebration focused heavily on reaching younger generations, with a special program for schoolchildren to teach them about Ndebele culture and history, as well as youth abstinence.
Speaking during the celebrations, the Mayor of Bulawayo, Mr David Coltart, noted the cultural significance of the occasion:
“This is perhaps the most important week in our city in terms of reflecting on our roots, our deep culture and our heritage… It’s meant to be seen as a unifying day, not a dividing day.”
Mayor Coltart also called on authorities to improve the road and signage to Mzilikazi’s tomb at Entumbane in the Matobo Hills, a national monument, to encourage heritage tourism and help build the local economy.
Resident Nontando Ndlovu further explained that the day serves as an important bridge for passing down the ancestors’ traditions to future generations. Delegations from across Southern Africa also joined the celebration.
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