Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena [email protected]
SONG, dance and traditional chants echoed through Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport yesterday as South African stars Khuzani Mpungose, Dawn Thandeka King and Mpilo Mbatha arrived for today’s King Mzilikazi commemorations.
Their arrival brought an air of excitement and anticipation as scores of cultural enthusiasts gathered at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport to welcome them. Amatshitshi, Abafana, Amabutho and members of the public turned out in colourful traditional attire, singing and dancing as they celebrated the arrival of the distinguished guests.
The warm reception highlighted the growing importance of the King Mzilikazi commemorations, which continue to attract attention beyond Zimbabwe’s borders and strengthen cultural links with neighbouring countries.
For Khuzani, one of South Africa’s most celebrated Maskandi musicians, the visit marks his first trip to Zimbabwe. The musician said he was overwhelmed by the welcome he received and immediately felt a strong connection with the people of Bulawayo.
“It’s my first time to be in Zimbabwe, KwaBulawayo, and I am shocked with what I am seeing here. Being welcomed by Amatshitshi and Amabutho is a beautiful gesture that I believe is mostly reserved for the kings and queens. Such a gesture humbles me.
“The songs from the reception are sung in isintu, a great common thing that we do in KwaZulu. Basically, my arrival here has confirmed that indeed we are one people. I am happy to be part of the people who will grace Umgubho weNkosi uMzilikazi today, and I am looking forward to having a great time learning about Ndebele culture,” said Khuzani.
His remarks reflected the deep cultural ties shared by AmaZulu and AmaNdebele people, ties that continue to be celebrated through events such as the King Mzilikazi commemorations.
For acclaimed actress Dawn Thandeka King, the trip was more of a homecoming than a visit.
The celebrated actress, who plays one of the leading roles in the hit television series Shaka iLembe, said she already feels a special bond with Bulawayo after spending time in the city earlier this year.
King previously visited Bulawayo for Imiklomelo kaDakamela and later travelled to Nkayi, where she immersed herself in local culture and interacted with communities.
The experience left a lasting impression on her and ultimately led her to spend more time in the city than originally planned.
“Being here already feels like home. Earlier this year, I was here and went to Nkayi, where I had a great cultural experience. Instead of staying for a short period of time, I had to stay much longer because I found purpose in this city, holding acting classes and doing other business.
“I am back to continue my cultural journey and discovery in this beautiful city, this time for the King Mzilikazi Day commemorations. My roots are connected with the Khumalo people, and I would love to learn more about their history and that of AmaNdebele,” she said.
King also used her visit to speak directly to young girls who welcomed the delegation at the airport.
Having been part of Amatshitshi during her youth, she encouraged young women to uphold values that would help them build meaningful futures.
“I personally was part of Amatshitshi and I rose through these ranks until I came of age. I encourage all of you to abstain from activities that will destroy your future,” she said.
After leaving the airport, the delegation made its way to the Highlanders Club House, one of Bulawayo’s most important sporting and cultural landmarks.
The visit was particularly significant because of Highlanders Football Club’s close historical links to the Ndebele royal family.
Founded in 1926 by Prince Albert Khumalo and Prince Rhodes, grandsons of King Lobengula and sons of Prince Njube, the club remains a powerful symbol of Ndebele identity and pride. The visit also coincides with Highlanders’ centenary celebrations this year.
The guests later toured Bulawayo’s city centre, interacting with residents while visiting several landmark sites, including the market place, the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo statue and City Hall.
The tour formed part of efforts to promote awareness of the King Mzilikazi commemorations and encourage greater public participation in the celebrations.
The delegation then travelled to eMhlahlandlela, where they delighted schoolchildren taking part in a youth programme. Their surprise appearance generated excitement among the youngsters, many of whom welcomed the opportunity to meet the visiting celebrities.
Attention now turns to today’s main commemorations, with thousands of people expected to gather for what organisers describe as one of the biggest celebrations of Ndebele culture and heritage.
The day’s activities will begin with a colourful procession through Bulawayo’s streets.
Starting at Matshobana at 7am, participants will march through the city before converging at the Large City Hall car park. From there, transport will ferry people to eMhlahlandlela in Matobo, near the Entumbane caves, the final resting place of King Mzilikazi.
The procession is expected to transform parts of the city into a vibrant display of culture, tradition and history.
Participants dressed in traditional attire will entertain crowds through song, dance and praise poetry, while Amatshitshi, Abafana and Amabutho are expected to lead the celebrations.
The commemorations honour King Mzilikazi, the founder of the Ndebele nation, while also celebrating the rich cultural heritage that continues to shape generations today.
Government officials, traditional leaders, civic leaders, cultural enthusiasts from across Africa, tourists, members of the Zimbabwean diaspora and visitors from around the country are all expected to attend.
