Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
INYATHI village in Bubi District, Matabeleland North, is set to come alive on Saturday as hundreds gather for the inaugural Queen Loziba Day celebrations — a cultural carnival honouring the life and legacy of Queen Loziba Thebe, senior wife to King Mzilikazi. The historic event will take place at Queen Loziba’s grave in Kopa–Emhlangeni village, 14 Avenue, the site of King Mzilikazi’s first capital before relocating to koMhlahlandlela in Matobo following her death in 1862.
The guest of honour will be Leo Zulukandaba Khumalo, a great-grandson of King Mzilikazi. According to Vuyo Mpofu-Nyandeni of the Queen Loziba Thebe Development Trust, the idea to celebrate the late Queen’s legacy was born during her tombstone unveiling ceremony last year.
“The idea of reviving the spirit and legacy of Queen Loziba was born when we unveiled her tombstone. Initially, our intention was just to restore her neglected grave. But after that ceremony, we realised her story could not end there, so we initiated an annual celebration in her honour,” said Nyandeni.
Preparations are progressing smoothly, with consultations held with traditional leaders, including chiefs and village heads. The local community has also been actively involved to ensure the event reflects authentic cultural values. At least 500 people from across the country are expected to attend. Food and drinks have already been secured for attendees, though organisers are appealing for transport assistance to ferry people from Bulawayo to Inyathi.
“We’ve managed to secure food and drinks, but transport remains a challenge. Many people want to be part of this event, so we’re appealing to well-wishers to help us with buses,” Nyandeni said.
The celebrations will feature traditional music, dance, and cuisine reminiscent of meals enjoyed by ancestors. A key highlight will be cultural teaching sessions for Amatshitshi (young women) and abafana (boys).
“They’ll be separated into groups and taught Ndebele traditions and rites of passage. The aim is to instil cultural pride and knowledge at a young age so that when they grow into parents, they can pass it on to future generations,” Nyandeni said.
Queen Loziba held a special place in King Mzilikazi’s royal household, rising to senior Queen after the execution of Queen Mwaka Nxumalo (mother of Nkulumane) and Fulatha Nxumalo (mother of Lobengula), who had promoted Nkulumane as successor during Mzilikazi’s prolonged absence. Historians often note a common misconception that conflates Queen Loziba Thebe with Queen Lozikeyi Dlodlo. Loziba was King Mzilikazi’s wife, while Lozikeyi was the wife of his son and successor, King Lobengula. Though both women played pivotal roles in Ndebele history, they remain distinct figures with unique contributions.
The debut of Queen Loziba Day seeks to cement her rightful place in the cultural and historical memory of the Ndebele people.
