Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ORGANISERS of the King Mzilikazi Day commemorations have revealed that since its inception in 2000, this year’s edition attracted a record crowd with thousands of people turning out.
The commemorations were held at King Mzilikazi’s grave koMhlahlandlela in Matopo on September 5 and 6.
The event attracted people from Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania, Botswana, the UK, US, Canada, Russia, amongst other nations.
“We are pleased to report that this year’s event was the most attended King Mzilikazi Day yet, drawing thousands of participants from across Zimbabwe, the region, and the diaspora,” said the Mthwakazi kaMzilikazi Cultural Association (MMCA).
“Highlights of the celebrations included a vibrant cultural parade and traditional performances, historical exhibitions and educational seminars, spiritual rituals honouring the legacy of King Mzilikazi, and the school engagement programmes.
“We also witnessed an unprecedented level of participation from traditional leaders, dignitaries, government officials, and international guests, making it a truly memorable and historic occasion,” said Sipho Gama, chairman of MMCA.
Gama revealed that the ball was already rolling as they have started preparations for next year’s event, which is expected to be even bigger.
“Our Day 1 programme, which successfully hosted schools, was a resounding success, and we are pleased to announce that we will be continuing with the same programme next year.
“Preparations are already underway to make the 2026 event even more impactful, inclusive, and far-reaching.”
Gama said they are fully behind the Loziba Thebe Development Trust, which will be hosting the first edition of the Queen Loziba Day celebrations set to be held tomorrow at eMhlangeni in Inyathi.
“Queen Loziba Thebe was King Mzilikazi’s favourite wife. She died in 1862 and she was buried in eMhlangeni, which was King Mzilikazi’s first capital before relocating to koMhlahlandlela.
“She left an indelible mark on our history, and we invite the nation to join us in celebrating her legacy,” said Gama. On November 8, MMCA will be holding the Gadade Battle Commemoration in Gadade, 40km out of Bulawayo, along Harare Road.
The Battle of Gadade, also known as the Battle of Bembezi, was a decisive and last battle of the First Anglo-Ndebele War and was fought on November 1, 1893.
During the battle, thousands of Ndebele warriors, armed with spears and rifles, were mowed down by British Maxim guns, a weapon the Ndebele had no prior knowledge of.
The battle marked the defeat of the Ndebele state.
“The battle of Gadade serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in our history and we call upon all stakeholders and the nation at large to come on board and support these events,” said Gama.
