Ndabezitha Malusi Zondi honoured at Usiko lokuthela amanzi ceremony in Zulu-Land
Chief Zondi surrounded by his regiments and Malawian vice president's International Coordinator Sibusiso Ndlovu
Image: Sipho Jack
Ndabezitha Malusi Zondi participated at Usiko lokuthela amanzi ceremony, held in EMashobeni in Zulu-Land this past weekend.
The sacred ceremonial tradition is not just a cultural rite; it bears significant weight as it solemnises the legitimacy of the king's rule over his people.
By going through this process, it means Zondi is now eligible to be installed as chief of his Bhambatha Clan.
Bhambatha Clan regiments at the Zondi homestead in Umzinyathi
Image: Sipho Jack
Led by His Majesty King Misizulu kaZwelithini and coordinated by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), the ceremony was attended by notable figures from various sectors, which emphasises the importance in KwaZulu culture.
King, Ndabezitha Malusi Zondi addressing his people prior to departing to Nongoma to participate in Usiko lokuthela amanzi ceremony in EMashobeni
Image: Sipho Jack
Ndabezitha Zondi, a respected business leader and public servant, and known for his commitment to inclusive economic development, was among those who was recognised at the event.
Zondi's tenure as President of the Black Business Federation (BBF) and chairperson of the Malusi Zondi Foundation has seen him gain recognition across multiple sectors for fostering peaceful and productive environments for conducive business growth throughout the nation.
Reflecting on his brother’s involvement, Sinazo Zondi expressed the family's gratitude to King Misizulu for what he described as an "extraordinary day" for both the Zondi family and the Bhambatha clan.
King, Ndabezitha Malusi Zondi.and his entourage arriving in EMashobeni at King MisuZulu's palace
Image: Sipho Jack
"We are proud of our brother, the Chief of Bhambatha wamacinza," Sinazo declared.
Among the guests was Sibusiso Ndlovu, the International Coordinator from the office of the second Vice President of Malawi, who conveyed congratulatory messages from Vice President Enockikani Zinganizana Chihana.
King MisuZulu at the Usiko lokuthela amanzi ceremony in EMashobeni.
Image: sipho Jack
Ndlovu emphasised the importance of African solidarity during challenging economic times and hailed Zondi for his efforts in fostering bilateral ties across borders.
“As Africans, we join hands to strengthen the differences within our countries, particularly amid economic strife,” he stated in recognising the occasion as a celebration of friendship and unity.
CoGTA MEC Thula Sizwe Buthelezi also addressed the gathering, and reaffirmed to the king that his department understands their responsibilities.
He acknowledged both the historical significance of the ceremony and the obstacles faced by traditional leaders over the years, including neglect by the government.
"This tradition carries weight, and we must honour it as it reassures the community of the king's rightful position," Buthelezi remarked, speaking to the emotional and practical implications of the event.
The MEC elaborated about the collaborative efforts between his department and the University of KwaZulu-Natal to train chiefs in modern governance methods while respecting human rights, bridging the gap between traditional authority and contemporary society.
"We drive this initiative to empower chiefs to exercise their powers responsibly and ensure they uphold democracy within their communities."
The event concluded with a gifting ceremony, where Zondi presented King Misizulu with an impressive gift of 124 cows.
Other participating kings, including Samson Mntungwa and Vukani KaMhlabaunzima, also contributed to the ceremony, demonstrating solidarity within the Zulu leadership.
DAILY NEWS