Public Lecture Highlights: "Celebrating the Life of Makhanda – The Cost of Freedom"
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Monday, 30th September 2024
At the Albany Museum, educator and public figure Mphumzi Rumsell Xonxa delivered an enthralling lecture titled "Celebrating the Life of Makhanda – The Cost of Freedom," shedding new light on the legacy of the Xhosa warrior and prophet, Makhanda ka Nxele. The lecture revisited the historic Battle of Grahamstown and explored its enduring impact.
Xonxa captivated attendees by recounting key moments of the 1819 battle, focusing on an unexpected historical detail involving settler woman Elizabeth Salt. In a daring act, Salt disguised a keg of gunpowder as a baby, slipping through the ranks of the AmaXhosa warriors unharmed. Xonxa emphasized that this was a significant cultural reflection, as the AmaXhosa customarily refrained from harming women or children during conflict. This bold act helped turn the tide of the battle in favor of the British forces, leading to their ultimate victory.
Central to Xonxa's lecture was the legendary surrender of Makhanda, which he described as both tragic and iconic. After the battle, Makhanda promised his people that he would return to them. However, he was taken as a prisoner to Robben Island. Xonxa revealed fascinating details about Makhanda’s journey, noting that he was treated with unexpected respect by the British. He was not shackled and was transported in a special wagon, with its sails tied down—a mark of honor reserved for distinguished figures. Despite this, Makhanda’s people continued to await his return, trusting in his promise.
Xonxa's exploration of Makhanda’s promise resonated deeply with the audience, as he linked the historical event to modern Xhosa culture. He highlighted the lasting significance of Makhanda’s vow, which has evolved into the symbolic phrase “Ukuza kuka Nxele” (Nxele's return). Today, it reflects a sense of anticipation for something that may never happen, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and uncertainties tied to the fight for freedom.
The lecture left a powerful impression, offering both a tribute to Makhanda’s enduring legacy and a reflection on the cost of freedom in South Africa's history.
Community Reflections: What Does Makhanda’s Promise Mean to You?
After the lecture, members of the community shared their thoughts on what Makhanda’s legacy and promise mean to them:
Anelisiwe Mgqwanca (Secretary):
“I feel like people believe that by living by Nxele’s values and what he stood for, they believe he will come back. We are living in Nxele’s legacy, and by holding onto that belief, he will ‘return.’”
Oyama George (Student):
“I take the phrase ‘Ukuza kuka Nxele’ as Christians believe in the return of Christ—having faith that Jesus will come back to us. There is a similar sense of hope.”
Noziphiwo (Abakhuseli Car Guard):
“I think it’s just a myth that Tatu Nxele will ever come back, and I don’t believe he will.”
The Abakhuseli Car Guards are a group of individuals who were previously unemployed. They provide car guarding and car washing services to raise funds and can be found in various spots around town.
Thamsanqa Zidepa (Farm Worker Pensioner):
“As a Christian, I’m waiting on God, not anyone else.”
Thanduxolo Bosi (Messenger):
“Many people believe by seeing, but there is also a spiritual belief. I think in spirit, Nxele will return. In our Xhosa belief, when someone does not return in the flesh, they come back in spirit. I believe Nxele visits people spiritually, even those he wasn’t related to. To me, ‘Ukuza kuka Nxele’ means that whatever you're waiting for will eventually come at the right time.”
The Legacy of Makhanda Lives On
Through Councillor Xonxa's thought-provoking lecture and the reflections of the community, it’s clear that Makhanda’s promise has left an enduring impact. Whether seen as a symbol of hope, a cultural myth, or a deeper spiritual belief, his legacy continues to inspire and resonate across generations. As the community reflects on Makhanda’s life, the question remains: how does his promise shape your beliefs about resilience?
