Isandlwana | Nquthu Local Municipality | Umzinyathi District | Thursday, 22 January 2026

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, together with dignitaries from across the African continent and the international community, joined Isilo Samabandla, His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, to commemorate the 147th anniversary of Impi YaseSandlwana - the historic Battle of Isandlwana.

The commemoration was held at Isandlwana, under the Nquthu Local Municipality in the Umzinyathi District Municipality, where King Cetshwayo kaMpande’s warriors achieved a landmark victory on 22 January 1879 by defeating the British Army. The Battle of Isandlwana remains one of the most significant events in African and global military history, marking the first time an African indigenous army defeated a major European imperial force in a conventional battle during the colonial era.

The Zulu regiments, armed primarily with traditional weapons and employing superior tactics, discipline and intimate knowledge of the terrain, overwhelmed British forces that were equipped with modern firearms and artillery. The victory sent shockwaves through the British Empire and remains a powerful symbol of African resistance, strategic leadership and the strength of unity.

Delivering his remarks, Premier Ntuli said the Battle of Isandlwana offers enduring lessons for contemporary society.

“The Battle of Isandlwana teaches us that when a nation is united, disciplined and driven by a common purpose, there is nothing that can stop it from overcoming even the most formidable obstacles. King Cetshwayo’s warriors demonstrated that unity, courage and strategic thinking can change the course of history,” said Premier Ntuli.

He added that the spirit of Isandlwana should continue to inspire the people of KwaZulu-Natal to confront modern-day challenges facing the province.

“By walking in the footsteps of King Cetshwayo’s troops, and by embracing unity, mutual respect and shared responsibility, KwaZulu-Natal can overcome the scourges of crime, drug abuse, and gender-based violence and femicide, which continue to damage our communities and the image of our province,” Premier Ntuli said.

The Premier further emphasised that the commemoration is not only about honouring the past, but also about drawing strength and guidance from history to build a more peaceful, united and prosperous future.

The annual commemoration of Impi YaseSandlwana serves as a reminder of the resilience, bravery and strategic brilliance of the Zulu nation, and reinforces the importance of preserving South Africa’s rich heritage as a foundation for nation-building, social cohesion and pride in African history.