The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, led by Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, remains committed to supporting Imikhosi kaZulu as preparations for this year’s annual Umkhosi weLembe are at an advanced stage.
This year’s commemoration will take place at Stanger High School sport grounds in KwaDukuza, Ilembe District next week on Heritage Day, 24 September.
Umkhosi weLembe is hosted annually in commemoration of the life of one of the greatest monarchs in African history and the world over, Isilo saKwaDukuza, King Shaka KaSenzangakhona - also known as Mlilwane or Sigidi - who was only 41 years old when he was assassinated on 24 September 1828 at his KwaDukuza Palace.
And 196 years later, the nation that King Shaka built within his 12 years rule remains the powerful brand in the world.
The event will be characterised by amabutho chanting slogans and singing traditional hymns and the day will culminate to a keynote address by the AmaZulu King, His Majesty, King Misuzulu KaZwelithini.
The Zulu Royal House in partnership with KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, Municipalities and various other stakeholders are steadfast and resolute that this commemorative day will not only be a success but will also serve as a step towards achieving cultural tolerance, unity, social cohesion and nation building.
MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Mntomuhle Khawula has appealed for restraint, tolerance and the highest display of good behaviour to those who will be attending uMkhosi weLembe.
“The people of KwaZulu-Natal are known for respect, restraint and cultural tolerance. As we commemorate one of the noble and bravest sons of the soil let us do so in a fashion that will promote our nation to other nations of the world. We appeal to Izinduna, Amabutho and the public at large to take pride in significant days such as uMkhosi weLembe as it is our way of looking back to visionaries that influenced the moral fabric of our nation. For us to know where we are headed, we must always remember where we are coming from,” said MEC Khawula.
MEC Khawula further emphasised that political regalia, alcohol, illegal weapons other than traditional accessories and stick fighting also known as umgangela is not allowed.
Members of the media are invited to be part of this historic event and provide coverage.
Event details are as following:
Venue: Stanger High School Sport Grounds, KwaDukuza
Date: 24 September 2024
Time: 09h00
Media Accreditation link: https://forms.office.com/r/U1Qd24zpnr
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ISSUED BY THE KWAZULU-NATAL DEPARTMENT OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE, AND THE ZULU ROYAL HOUSE
Enquiries:
Prince Simphiwe Zulu, Royal Spokesperson, 0799887043/ 0826441871
Mr Ntando Mnyandu, Media Liaison Officer, 0603290690 Ntando.Mnyandu@kzndsac.gov.za.
Mr Thabo Mofokeng, Head of Communication 0827317456, thabo.mofokeng@kzndsac.gov.za