Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Sunday Life Reporter
SOUTH African actress Dawn Thandeka King, who starred in the popular Mzansi Magic drama series Shaka iLembe, is set to grace this year’s King Mzilikazi commemorations, which will be held on September 4 and 5 at eMhlahlandlela in Matobo, near the resting place of the Ndebele monarch.
King, who portrayed the character of Mkabayi in the epic series, will return to Zimbabwe after experiencing Ndebele culture at this year’s Imiklomela kaDakamela in Nkayi, Matabeleland North, which was hosted by Chief Dakamela at his homestead, eBabambeni.
The actress is expected to be joined by Mpilo Mbatha, who played the role of Mzilikazi kaMashobana in the second season of Shaka iLembe.
For Mbatha, the visit will mark his first appearance in Zimbabwe since his portrayal of Mzilikazi won praise from viewers for bringing the historical figure to life.
The two actors will also attend an after-party show on September 5, headlined by South African
Maskandi musician Khuzani Mpungose. Local Maskandi artiste Zwelihle Jele, veteran poet Lerato
Nqindi and Gwanda-based artiste Umfanomsotho are also billed to perform.
Event organiser Danisiwe Senda said the decision to invite the two South African actors was motivated by the shared cultural heritage between the Zulu and Ndebele people.
“Dawn Thandeka King declared Bulawayo her second home after joining the Zulu nation delegation at this year’s Imiklomelo kaDakamela, hosted by Chief Mbusi Dakamela of Nkayi at his eBabambeni homestead.
“With that in mind, we decided to bring her back for another cultural experience at the King Mzilikazi commemorations. She is not coming alone, as another Shaka iLembe actor, Mpilo
Mbatha, will also grace the event. The two will later appear at the Khuzani show, which will be held on the evening of September 5,” he said.
Senda said he specifically wanted Mbatha to visit Zimbabwe to experience first-hand, the significance of Mzilikazi and the affection in which the Ndebele king is held by his people.
“Mbatha did a stellar job in bringing Mzilikazi’s character to life. I personally fell in love with his acting skills, hence my decision to bring him for this event. Apart from fulfilling my dream, I brought him so that he can understand that the nation and its king, whom he represented on Shaka iLembe, is alive.
“I want him to understand the weight he carried on his shoulders in bringing that character to life. He has to experience how important King Mzilikazi is regarded as a nation-builder here in
Zimbabwe. This will also assist him as he prepares to play the character in Season 3. For him, this trip will be more of a research experience,” he said.
Senda said proceeds from the Khuzani show will be channelled towards the construction of the proposed University of Matobo.
