Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
PREPARATIONS for the 2026 King Mzilikazi annual commemorations are underway, with organisers, the Mthwakazi KaMzilikazi Cultural Association (MMCA), indicating that this year’s event is poised to surpass previous editions in both scale and impact.
The highly anticipated cultural gathering will take place on September 4 and 5 at the King Mzilikazi Memorial Site, located approximately 22km outside Bulawayo along the Old Gwanda Road.
Following a strong turnout of about 10 000 attendees in 2025, organisers are optimistic that this year’s commemorations will attract double that number. Growing interest from both local communities and the diaspora reflects a renewed appreciation of cultural heritage and identity.
The association has expressed gratitude to individuals, families and organisations that have supported the event over the years, urging continued backing to ensure its success.
The first day of the festival will be dedicated to children, focusing on learning, storytelling and interactive activities centred on Northern Ndebele history and the enduring values of Ubuntu. The main commemoration on September 5 will honour the life and legacy of King Mzilikazi, celebrating his leadership and contribution to the formation of the Ndebele nation.
MMCA member, Prince “Dr Gasolo” Ncube, said this year’s edition will introduce build-up events ahead of the main celebration to enhance public engagement.
“King Mzilikazi remains a towering figure in African history. We believe a single day is not enough to celebrate such a legacy, which is why we have expanded the programme into a two-day cultural experience,” said Dr Gasolo.
Festivities will begin on August 29 with the Amatshitshi Cultural Festival, organised in partnership with Sigiya Ngamasiko Ethu, setting the tone for the main event.
“We’re introducing build-up shows to generate excitement and sustain momentum leading up to the commemorations. The Amatshitshi Cultural Festival will play a key role in this regard.
“We’ll also have other events in the form of music, dance, poetry, and seminars that will be in line with the legacy of King Mzilikazi.
“We crafted this edition in a manner that will leave a lasting impression on those who’ll grace these events, as they’ll be a representation of the Ndebele people,” said Dr Gasolo.
He said the 2026 edition is set to be bigger and better organised, with a dedicated team now in place to drive the social media campaign, alongside volunteers tasked with various roles to ensure the commemoration’s success.
“We’re also calling for more partnerships, sponsorships and volunteers.
“This is a collective effort to celebrate our heritage and pass it on to future generations. Preserving our culture is a shared responsibility,” said Dr Gasolo.
