KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT TO JOIN HIS MAJESTY AMAZULU KING MISUZULU KAZWELITHINI IN COMMEMORATING 145 YEARS OF THE BATTLE OF ISANDLWANA
KWAZULU-NATAL Provincial Government led by Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube will, this weekend, join His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini in commemorating 145 years of the Battle of Isandlwana where the Zulu army scored a decisive military victory against the British Army during Impi yase Sandlwana.
The Battle of Isandlwana is part of a series of the Anglo-Zulu War fought between the Zulu and British armies in 1879. It was led by then Zulu King Cetshwayo kaMpande known by his praise name; “uJininindi omnyama”. Most prominent izinduna at the horn of the battle were Ntshingwayo kaMahole Khoza, supported by Mnyamana ka Ngqengelele Buthelezi and Sgcwelegcwele Ngema, all of the indomitable Ngobamakhosi regiment of King Cetshwayo
The Zulus regiments scored a decisive victory during the first battle before they were overpowered by the British Army in the subsequent battle leading to the latter burning down Ulundi, the Zulu capital. King Cetshwayo was captured by British and sent to face Queen Victoria in England. Upon his return he was jailed at Eshowe.
The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Nomusa Dube-Ncube will lead the Executive Council on Saturday, 27 January 2024 to join King Misuzulu in Isandlwana Hill, Nquthu to commemorate a moment that is one of the important dates in the history of the AmaZulu nation.
“This day will remain imprinted not only in the corridors of history but on the minds and souls of the Zulu Nation and Africans. This is the cornerstone of who we are as a Zulu nation. We are reminded of the time when our warriors did not cower in the shadow of death but relished the opportunity to fight bravely to defend their land. As we face so many challenges today as a people, we take a leaf from the bravery of these warriors anchored on no retreat no surrender principle” said Premier Dube-Ncube
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba said it was important that this day remains etched to the minds of all African as it was for the very first time that an African tribe defeat the then all-conquering British Army.
“As we commemorate the battle of Isandlwana we pay special tribute to amabutho including uKhandampevu for the victory that saw Zulu armed with only spears and cowhide shields, inflicting serious defeat to highly decorated and equipped British Empire army,” he said.
Venue: Isandlwana Battlefields, Nquthu
Date: Saturday 27 January 2024
Time: 9am
Ends
ISSUED BY THE KWAZULU-NATAL GOVERNMENT
