The Founder and Global President of Afrikan Young Indigenous Leaders from Ngcobo, Dr Nikiwe Bam, confirmed that she had attended the highly anticipated Umgubho wamaHlubi and Amahlubi Kingdom Jubilee Celebration, which was recently held at the Hlubi Kingdom in Estcourt.
She said the event marked a momentous occasion for the Amahlubi people as they celebrated their rich cultural heritage and 50 years of kingdom achievements.
“Among the notable guests were a delegation from the Kingdom of Eswatini, Imboni uZwilezwe Radebe of the Revelation Spiritual Home, international guests, and representatives from the Royal Houses of the Zulu Kingdom, Mpondo Kingdom, Mpondomise Kingdom, and Ndebele Kingdom.
The presence of these esteemed guests highlighted the significance of the event in fostering unity and cultural pride across Southern Africa,” said Bam.
She added that His Royal Highness (HRH), Inkosi Zusifa Buthelezi, emphasised his commitment to walking in his father’s footsteps by strengthening the relationships his father had built. He highlighted his dedication to working closely with the Hlubi Kingdom and continuing the legacy of collaboration between the Buthelezi family and the Hlubi people.
Bam underscored her organisation’s strong support for the recognition of the Hlubi Kingdom.
Her attendance further cemented her role in uniting African communities and supporting cultural sustainability across the continent.
Bam said she has been at the forefront of various traditional and cultural forums, including the African Traditional Leaders’ Forum and her ongoing work with the Afrikan Indigenous Leaders Organisation.
“It is an honour to be part of such a significant occasion for the Amahlubi Kingdom. This celebration is not just about the past 50 years, but about the future of our kingdoms and the legacy we leave for generations to come. I am proud to witness the unity and pride of the Amahlubi people.”
The celebration brought together local and regional leaders, traditional authorities, and members of the public, all honouring the continued contributions of the Amahlubi Kingdom to the cultural and socio-political landscape of South Africa.
“I wish my community could also have heritage celebrations because the Amaqwathi are not Xhosa people but eMbo and are closely related to Mpondomise and Mpondo, as are the amaXesibe. As the Mpondomise people in Engcobo, we also need to embrace our own culture because we have our King in Qumbu. Hosting heritage celebrations can also assist all community members to know who they are.”
