BULAWAYO – King Mzilikazi Khumalo was remembered as a visionary leader and nation-builder, not the ruthless invader depicted in colonial history books, during the King Mzilikazi Indaba held at the Large City Hall on Thursday.
The event set the stage for this year’s King Mzilikazi Day commemorations scheduled for September 6 and 7 at Mhlahlandlela.
Traditional leaders, scholars and the Khumalo royal family called for Zimbabweans to embrace the history of the Ndebele founding monarch as a source of identity, pride and unity.
Academic and public policy expert Dr Samukele Hadebe challenged long-held colonial narratives that cast Mzilikazi as a bloodthirsty conqueror, insisting his rule was marked by inclusivity.
“If he were a dictator, those he integrated would have left after his death. Instead, they stayed, which speaks to the peace and unity he fostered,” Hadebe told delegates.
Prince Peter Zwide Khumalo, representing the Khumalo royal house, said the movement to revive Mzilikazi’s legacy was crucial to cultural preservation.
“We realised the story of King Mzilikazi was slowly disappearing. This movement was born to revive his legacy and unite the nation around his vision,” he said, adding that respect for traditional leaders was key to sustaining cultural values.
Chief Mathema weighed in, urging present-day leaders to draw inspiration from the king’s reign.
“He led with dignity and upheld Ndebele culture. Understanding our past helps us shape our future,” he said.
The King Mzilikazi Day commemorations are expected to draw thousands to Mhlahlandlela for cultural displays, traditional rituals and debates on heritage preservation.
Last year’s King Mzilikazi Day commemorations drew thousands of people from across Matabeleland and beyond, with cultural exhibitions, traditional dances and debates on heritage preservation dominating the two-day programme. Organisers said this year’s edition would build on that momentum, with a bigger turnout expected at Mhlahlandlela.
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