Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
INYATHI village in Matabeleland North is set to come alive on Saturday as hundreds of people are expected to gather for the inaugural Queen Loziba Day celebrations.
It’s a cultural carnival honouring the life and legacy of King Mzilikazi’s senior wife, Queen Loziba Thebe.
The historic commemorations will be held at Queen Loziba’s grave in Kopa, Emhlangeni Village, the site of King Mzilikazi’s first capital before relocating to koMhlahlandlela in Matobo, following Loziba’s death in 1862.
The guest of honour will be Leo Zulukandaba Khumalo, a great-grandson of King Mzilikazi.
According to Queen Loziba Thebe Development Trust’s Vuyo Mpofu-Nyandeni, the idea to celebrate the late Queen’s legacy was conceived 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.
Nyandeni revealed that preparations are progressing smoothly, with consultations having been held with traditional leaders, including chiefs and village heads.
The 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 the meals enjoyed by ancestors.
The main highlight, however, 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 instill 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).
Historians often note a 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.
Queen Loziba Day seeks to cement her rightful place in the cultural and historical memory of the Ndebele people.
