Makhanda is filled with so many stories that shaped our community

Tourism and Heritage Month is here! And what better way to celebrate than by uncovering Makhanda’s hidden gems and must-do heritage experiences?

Together with Imbumba Yeemboni, a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving our history and culture, we embarked on a journey across sites that hold the memory, spirit, and resilience of our community. Along the way, we were guided by Unathi Klaas, Wongalethu Luguxa, and Lungelwa Diko, with bursts of praise poetry by Akhona Bhodl’ingqaka Mafani — reminding us that history is not just told, but felt.

1. Egazini Memorial

Our journey began at the Egazini Battlefield in Fingo Village, where Akhona Mafani praised the legendary warrior Makhanda ka Nxele. Here, history came alive as we reflected on the battles that shaped the city.

“Each stop uncovers stories that shaped our community.”

Next up: the resting place of King Lobengula’s family.

2. Luvuyo Hall, Fingo Village – King Lobengula Family Graves

At Luvuyo Hall, we visited the graves of King Lobengula’s descendants, where Wongalethu Luguxa of Imbumba Yeemboni shared the moving tale of loss and resilience.

Did you know?
King Lobengula’s grandson and heir lies buried here, alongside his mother, Queen Mpoiyane, and his son, Rhodes. They were casualties of the Matabeleland wars and Cecil John Rhodes’ empire-building in 1894.

Learn more 👉 Read here

3. eNcedweni – The Legacy of ‘Ukuza kukaNxele’

Here we encountered a stone built as a symbol of ‘kubuya kuka Nxele’ (the return of Nxele).

“Makhanda ka Nxele was a beloved warrior of his people. Before his arrest, he promised he would return. Though he never came back, the stone stands as a reminder of his legacy and the hope he inspired.” – Unathi Klaas

Next stop: the mountain that holds both prayers and pain.

4. Intaba YeZono

Once called the Mountain of Zion, this was where mothers gathered to pray for rain. Later, it became known as Intaba YeZono (Mountain of Sin), a place where many took their own lives during times of hardship.

“This mountain carries both our deepest hopes and our heaviest sorrows.” – Akhona Bhodl’ingqaka Mafani

5. Egazini Outreach Project

Our journey continued to the Egazini Outreach Project in Extension 6.

“This place was a site of suffering, where our brothers were locked up and tortured. Later, it became a place of craft, beadwork, and ABET classes — transforming pain into creativity and empowerment.” – Lungelwa Diko

6. Dakawa Arts and Crafts Community Centre

Our final stop was Dakawa, an arts hub that today showcases the creativity of Makhanda’s people.

History fact:
The Dakawa Project began in Tanzania in 1986 under the ANC, aimed at developing vocational skills for exiles. It later grew into today’s Dakawa Arts and Crafts Centre — a proud part of Eastern Cape’s arts development.

This journey reminds us that Makhanda is more than just a city — it is a living archive of resilience, artistry, and heritage. From battlefields to bursts of poetry, every step reveals who we are and why preserving our culture matters.

📍 Next stop: More heritage hotspots of Makhanda! Stay tuned.

Customised tours can be arranged with our local guides. This tour was just a quick snapshot of our heritage journey. For enquiries, drop us a line at info@grahamstown.co.za