Zulu King Misuzulu Ka Zwelithini has implored Amakhosi (Chiefs) to lead from the front and be the ones who help bring development in their rural areas where they lead.
He also implored them to lead with humility and be exemplary to their people.
The Zulu King made the brief remarks on Friday at Mashobeni royal palace in Nongoma, where he presided over the ancient and sacred ceremony of “Ukuthela amanzi” by three clans who are part of the Zulu kingdom.
Sacred custom
This is a sacred custom where Amakhosi pledge loyalty to His Majesty the King ahead of their official installation as Amakhosi. Since assuming the throne, the King has successfully hosted this ceremony in July and October 2024. This is part of his official duties as stipulated in section 18 of the KZN traditional leadership and governance act
“I am glad that Amakhosi came here to perform this sacred and ancient ritual. I plead with Amakhosi to respect their people and … lead development initiatives in their areas. So that job opportunities could be created and people get out of the grinding poverty they face,” the Zulu King said. He added that Amakhosi should feel free to come to the royal house as this is their eternal home as well.
Three clans in the ceremony
The three clans that were part of the ceremony were the Mathabas of Macambini near Mandeni. They introduced Inkosi Mthokozisi Mathaba as their next king. He succeeds his late father, Inkosi Khayelihle Mathaba, who died in a car accident a few years ago.
The Lushaba clan of Oshabeni near Port Shepstone in southern KwaZulu-Natal introduced Inkosi Sithembiso Lushaba as their next traditional leader. And the Dube clan found near Richards Bay introduced Mbongiseni Dube as their next traditional leader.
The three traditional leaders would now be officially installed on dates to be announced by the King. This will be in consultation with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta).
