Lungani Zungu
A sombre yet uplifting mood prevailed in rural Nongoma, KZN during the memorial service of King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu on Thursday.
Bidding farewell, Amabutho, young and old maidens dressed in traditional attire, sang emotional songs at King Zwelithini’s KwaKhethomthandayo Royal Palace.
The king was laid to rest in an all-male private ceremony in the early hours of Thursday, in line with royal rituals.
A memorial service held afterwards saw many ANC political rivals come together under one roof.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who delivered the eulogy, was spotted greeting former president Jacob Zuma. The two political foes shared jokes and friendly exchanges during the funeral.
Delivering his eulogy, Ramaphosa said: “A big tree has fallen. We have lost a revered leader.”
The president described King Zwelithini’s passing as a profound loss.
He said the king will be remembered for his role in brokering peace in KZN, between the warring IFP and ANC factions in the 1980s.
“He will be remembered as the staunchest defenders of his people,” said Ramaphosa.
“Being in his presence was a rare privilege.”
He lauded him for championing the war against the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi said King Zwelithini has transitioned to higher service.
“We are walking through the valley of grief but we still stand,” said Buthelezi.
“He championed and was an extraordinary philanthropist. If it weren’t for King Zwelithini the AmaZulu nation would be poorer.”
The 92-year-old former IFP leader vowed to continue where the king left off for what is left of his life.
KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala hailed King Zwelithini as a unifier.
The newly-elected CAF President Patrice Motsepe was at the memorial, while award-winning musician Sjava sang with Amabutho.
The royal house thanked all those who offered condolences to the family.
King Zwelithini died last week aged 73 after a long illness at the Chief Albert Central Hospital in Durban, where he was treated for diabetes.
The royal family has shot down any debate over who will be the ninth king of the AmaZulu nation, after King Zwelithini’s 50-year reign.
