Discovering the Legacy of King Lobengula: A Journey Through History
Friday, 27th September 2024
Sizwe Mda, a proud descendant of the revered King Lobengula, recently shared his journey and inspiration behind his new book, which illuminates the historical narrative of King Lobengula’s descendants, particularly those who were relocated to the Western Cape during the colonial era.
A Historical Context
Sizwe's venture into writing this book stems from a growing curiosity among people regarding their heritage. “There are lots of people asking for a picture or family tree of who is who,” he explains. With a desire for clarity amidst the often-contentious discussions surrounding royalty, he aims to educate readers on the legacy of King Lobengula and the historical events that shaped their lineage.
Following the war of 1893, orchestrated by Cecil John Rhodes, many descendants of King Lobengula found themselves uprooted and brought to South Africa. This forced migration, along with the intricate dynamics of colonialism, forms the backbone of Sizwe's narrative. He contemplates the duality of colonialism, acknowledging both its detrimental impacts and the opportunities it presented, including the establishment of institutions like Rhodes University in Makhanda, which were initially intended for the Western Cape.
A Call for Unity and Heritage Restoration
Sizwe's message extends beyond the pages of his book; it calls for a collective appreciation of the past while urging unity among descendants. “Let’s appreciate our past, though we don’t like it, but let us be a rainbow and united,” he asserts. With plans to donate a portion of the book's proceeds to local heritage initiatives and schools, Sizwe is committed to restoring the spirit of community in Makhanda.
He highlights the importance of teaching history to the youth, as it is a powerful tool for awareness and reflection. “History repeats itself,” he warns, noting the influx of foreigners and the importance of grounding the younger generation in their rich heritage. He shares his efforts in engaging local students, like those at Nathaniel Nyaluza, encouraging them to connect with their history through art and storytelling.
Preserving the Memory of King Lobengula
Sizwe is passionate about ensuring that the history of King Lobengula and the struggles faced by his descendants are not forgotten. “The museum tells the story about King Lobengula,” he remarks, highlighting the importance of preserving significant sites and narratives, such as the graves of King Lobengula’s descendants located in the vicinity of Makhanda.
His book, titled The Two Horns, serves as a crucial piece in piecing together this fragmented history, offering insights into the lives and legacies of King Lobengula's descendants in Grahamstown.
Where to now?
As Sizwe Mda continues his journey to uncover and celebrate the legacy of King Lobengula, he invites everyone to partake in this enriching narrative. His efforts not only aim to educate and unite, but also to foster a renewed sense of pride in the shared history of Makhanda and its people. By connecting with our past, we can inspire future generations to appreciate and honor their rich heritage.
