During the Umsimbithi Cultural Event, Princess Dr Nikiwe Bam, Founder and Global President of Afrikan Indigenous Leaders (AIL), accompanied by Ms Nomfundo Biyela, donated pillows, linen, pairs of school shoes, reading books and sanitary pads to Ndlunkulu at Somkhanda Palace. The gesture reflected the spirit of Ubuntu and the importance of supporting traditional institutions and the communities they serve.
Princess Dr Bam explained that, as a first-time visitor to Somkhanda Palace, it was important for her not to arrive empty-handed. Although she had not prepared special gifts for the occasion, she chose to bring what she could, believing that even a small contribution could make a meaningful difference.
She reflected on the early work of Afrikan Indigenous Leaders, when members would visit traditional leaders to introduce the organisation and seek donations and support for community initiatives. These visits were rooted in Ubuntu, the African principle that reminds us of our shared humanity and our responsibility to care for one another.
Princess Dr Bam emphasised that the donated items could assist Inkosi in supporting members of his community. For her, the gesture was not about the size or value of the donation, but about the willingness to give and the responsibility to support those who carry the burden of serving others.“Traditional leaders remain a source of hope for their people. They are constantly expected to provide guidance, comfort and assistance to their communities, yet very few people stop to ask how these leaders themselves are supported in fulfilling their responsibilities,” she observed.
Her wish is to see more individuals, businesses, organisations and community members extend their generosity to traditional leaders and royal households. Such support would help ease the burden of caring for communities and strengthen the ability of traditional institutions to continue serving their people.
Princess Dr Bam’s visit to Somkhanda Palace, together with Ms Nomfundo Biyela, serves as a reminder that Ubuntu is not merely a principle to be spoken about, but a value to be lived. Every contribution, however small, can become part of a greater effort to restore dignity, strengthen communities and ensure that those who dedicate their lives to serving others are not left to carry the responsibility alone.
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