Celani Sikhakhane
As the annual reed dance fast approaches, nobody in the Zulu Royal Family seems to know who is expected to announce the date of the major event.
The reed dance, which attracts more than 30,000 maidens, is held annually at eNyokeni royal palace in Nongoma at the end of women’s month in August.
Before his death, King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu was the only person who would announce the date of the ceremony
Now, nobody knows whether it is King Misuzulu kaZwelithini or his rebel uncle, Prince Mbonisi Zulu, who holds the authority to announce the date.
This comes after a voice note was circulated instructing the organisers of the Zulu Maidens that they should wait for Prince Mbonisi Zulu to announce the date.
The voice note said that Prince Mbonisi is the only head of the family.
It is believed that the voice comes from one of Princess Thembi Zulu Ndlovu’s daughters.
Prince Mbonisi told Scrolla.africa that as the head of the family, he is the only one who has the authority to decide the details of the Reed Dance.
“Why are you so much in a hurry about this ceremony? I will make an announcement when the time comes,” said Prince Mbonisi.
A source from the Royal Family said that all the Zulu ceremonies, including the King Shaka memorial event which is held in September at KwaDukuza, might not take place this year.
“Prince Mbonisi is confusing people. The head of the Family is King Misuzulu. Look, nothing is taking place for now until all the disputes are over,” said one of the royal aunts.
Princess Thembi Zulu Ndlovu said only Prince Mbonisi will make an announcement as the head of the family.
However, Prince Thulani Zulu said that only the Department of Arts and Culture will make a decision about the ceremony.
But Arts and Culture Spokesperson Phathisa Mfuyo said the Royal Family will decide.
“We only come to support the Royal Family as the department. Just go back to Prince Thulani, he will explain all the details,” said Mfuyo.
