The Umsimbithi Cultural Event, hosted by Inkosi Mbhekiseni Gumbi, brought together traditional leaders, royal representatives and cultural delegates from South Africa, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania in a powerful demonstration of the growing commitment to restoring Ngoni heritage and uniting African kingdoms.
The gathering welcomed representatives of the Ngoni Royal Establishment of Zambia, including Inkosi Nzamane and Gogo Madzimawe, accompanied by Dumisani Mtembo, Chairperson of the Ncwala Organising Committee, and other delegates. Malawi was represented by the Mzimba Heritage Association, while Tanzania was represented by Inkosi Mgendela Gama. South African dignitaries included Princess Dr Nikiwe Bam, Founder and Global President of Afrikan Indigenous Leaders from the Mpondomise Kingdom in the Eastern Cape; Inkosi yakwaMjoli from Mzimkhulu; Inkosi Fodo from Gugwini under the Nhlangwini Nation; Inkosi yakwaButhelezi; Prince Bizwekhaya kaZwelithini Zulu; Prince Bongani Zulu; and other representatives of traditional institutions.
Historical restoration was central to the gathering. Author Mr Sibusiso Lucky Gumbi shared insights into the journeys of Inkosi Gumbi to reconnect with Ngoni communities in Malawi and Zambia, challenging simplistic accounts of King Zwangendaba’s movements and highlighting migration, environmental challenges and ancestral connections. Professor Maphalala further reflected on Ngoni history, the movements of Zwangendaba and Soshangane, and the importance of understanding historical journeys beyond present-day national borders. Dr Skhomba Gumbi, Chairperson of the Gumbi–Jele association from eSwatini, expressed gratitude for the ongoing restoration of their shared history.
Professor Maphalala commended Inkosi Mbhekiseni Gumbi for his perseverance, noting his continued participation in cultural engagements in Malawi and Zambia and his visits to Tanzania despite limited resources. Inkosi Fodo welcomed the international visitors and praised Inkosi Gumbi’s efforts to bring traditional leaders and communities together.In his address, Inkosi Gumbi emphasised the importance of possessing valid travel documents, reminding delegates that traditional leaders also use passports when travelling internationally. He encouraged proper preparation to facilitate cross-border cultural engagement and participation in royal gatherings.
Princess Dr Nikiwe Bam expressed sincere gratitude to Inkosi Gumbi for the invitation. She welcomed the opportunity to witness the vision of uniting African kingdoms and reconnecting Ngoni communities becoming a reality. Having travelled to Malawi, Zambia, Tanzania, Ghana and eSwatini in pursuit of cultural diplomacy and cooperation among African kingdoms, she reaffirmed her commitment to supporting future Umsimbithi Cultural Events. She expressed the ambition to help grow the gathering into the biggest Ngoni gathering in South Africa.
The Umsimbithi Cultural Event demonstrated that restoring African heritage requires more than remembering the past; it requires bringing people together, rebuilding relationships and ensuring that ancestral histories are preserved for future generations. The participation of traditional leaders and delegates from across the region marked an important step towards stronger Ngoni connections and greater cooperation among African kingdoms.
Afrikan Indigenous Leaders recognises Inkosi Mbhekiseni Gumbi and all participating traditional leaders, historians and cultural representatives for their contribution to this shared vision. The commitment is clear: to restore our histories, reconnect our kingdoms and build a united African heritage that future generations can inherit with pride.
ENDS
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