- King Zwelithini ruled for over 50 years without being swallowed by party politics.
- He was loved for his simplicity and efforts to unite Zulu people during tough times.
King Zwelithini may be gone, but his legacy still brings people together, writes Celani Sikhakhane in his column on royal families across South Africa.
This week marked the fourth anniversary of the passing on of the most unifying Zulu King — a man who never let politics dim his crown.
King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu died on 12 March 2021 at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, but his legacy still lives strong, especially in the hearts of the people of Nongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
He may have lived in a palace, but the King always kept it real. He didn’t show off or distance himself from his people — he lived among them, just like any neighbour would.
Whether he was attending a community event or a royal gathering, King Zwelithini was always flanked by his wives — all five of them.
One of them, Queen Buhle kaMathe, was famously shy but never far from his side.
Even when the media tried to drag him down, the King never cracked under pressure.
He played a huge role in calming KwaZulu-Natal during violent clashes between the ANC and IFP.
And no matter how heated the royal family drama got, everyone always came together on 12 March to remember him — a day that’s become a symbol of unity.
When violence erupted over foreign-owned spaza shops in KZN, people expected the King to fan the flames.
Instead, he called a massive meeting at Moses Mabhida Stadium and used his voice to cool things down, not heat them up.
He made it clear that African nationals who were in the province legally should be respected.
King Zwelithini was a true people’s leader — not just in KZN, but across the Southern African Development Community.
He even gave the Reed Dance a new purpose. It became a powerful tool to teach young people about HIV and Aids prevention. He never used the event for personal gain.
He also championed medical male circumcision among Zulu males in an effort to fight the spread of HIV-Aids.
His first Reed Dance as a King was in 1984 and yes, it’s where he chose a wife.
But most importantly, King Zwelithini was known for uniting politicians, promoting rural development and standing with the poor.
He was the first Zulu King to rule for more than 50 years and he did it with dignity, strength and heart.
Pictured above: The Zulu King who never let divisive politics get in the way of unity.
Image source: Celani Sikhakhane
