Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
SOUTH African Maskandi star Khuzani Mpungose, popularly known as Khuba, is expected to attend this year’s King Mzilikazi commemorations, scheduled for September 4 and 5 at Entumbane in Matobo.
The visit will mark Khuzani’s first trip to Zimbabwe, with the acclaimed musician set to join thousands of people from across the region in honouring the legacy of King Mzilikazi kaMashobana, the founding monarch of the Ndebele nation.
Khuzani said he was honoured by the invitation and was eager to learn more about Ndebele history and culture.
“It’s a great honour for me to be invited to be part of Umgubho weNkosi uMzilikazi kaMashobana. I have learnt a lot about him through history, and it is a privilege to be one of those attending this year’s celebrations.
“I am eager to learn more about the history of the Ndebele people. What I know is that we are one people, and it will be an exciting moment for me to be in Zimbabwe. I am looking forward to learning about the way of life and how we connect with the Ndebele people,” said Khuzani.
Following the commemorations, Khuzani will headline an after-party at a local venue in Bulawayo on September 5. He will share the stage with local Maskandi musician Zwelihle Jele, seasoned poet
Lerato Nwindi and Gwanda-based artiste Umfanomsuthu.
The iJele hitmaker said cultural gatherings such as the commemorations played a vital role in promoting unity and strengthening ties among African people.
Meanwhile, organisers of the event, the Mthwakazi kaMzilikazi Cultural Association (MMCA), said preparations were at an advanced stage, with thousands of people expected to attend. MMCA spokesperson Prince “Dr Gasolo” Ncube said organisers were targeting about 20 000 attendees after last year’s event drew an estimated 10 000 people.
He said the growing interest from local communities and the diaspora reflected a renewed appreciation of African history, culture and identity.
“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’ve expanded the programme into a two-day cultural experience.
“The first day 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,” said Dr Gasolo.
He said the association was appealing to corporates, particularly those in Zimbabwe and the diaspora, to support the event through sponsorship and funding.
“We’re at an advanced stage in terms of preparations and, as always, we look forward to hosting people from Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania and other parts of Africa. Due to the numbers we’re expecting, we’re calling upon corporates to collaborate with us through funding and sponsorship. We have a mandate to feed everyone and ensure the event is a success,” said Dr Gasolo.
