JOHANNESBURG South Africa-based Zimbabweans, especially those who originally come from the western region of Matabeleland, will this Saturday celebrate King Mzilikazi Day at a Johannesburg Hotel. Mzilikazi Khumalo, who founded the Ndebele kingdom in the 19th century, after breaking ranks with King Shaka of Zulu-land, died on September 5 1868 and organisers said they will hold celebrations in his honour at Booysens Hotel.
The event will take place at the Booysens Hotel in Johannesburg, South Africa to coincide with a similar event in Bulawayo on the same day, said Gerald Ngulube kaNcube, director of an internet broadcasting station Radio Mthwakazi, who is also one of the organisers of the event.
It will be a day of remembrance, memory and celebration of the extraordinary life of one of Africas greatest kings of all time, a nation builder, a warrior and above all a leader with valour and unprecedented gallantry.
From King Mzilikazi, modern political leaders can learn vital lessons of nation building, uniting people of different persuasions, different political stripes, religion, creed and tribes. King Mzilikazi built a strong and proud nation out of hitherto disparate groups speaking different languages.
The event will be dominated by music, traditional dance, poetry, speeches by a coterie of speakers comprising Dr Sabelo Gatsheni Ndlovu, London School of Economics educated political scientist Dr Churchill Mpiyesizwe Guduza, King Lobengulas great grand-son Mehlokazulu Khumalo, academic Wilbert Sibanda and numerous members of the Khumalo clan who are direct descendants of King Mzilikazi.
Entertainment will be provided by a numerous music groups who have all volunteered to perform for free and include South Africas leading maskandi group Izingane Zoma, Matebeleland Young Brothers, Achuzi and Go Boys and Gwambe Stars.
Top Johannesburg DJs, DJ Joe and DJ Ladizman will be on the turntables to ensure that all age groups are catered for. The event has been organised by volunteers without any funding except for generous logistical support from Booysens Hotel and Radio Mthwakazi.
Post published in: Arts