For many years there has been a great debate on the real identity of the Ndebele Nation especially in the context of Matabeleland. The contested identity of the Ndebele people for both the Southern and Northern Ndebele Nations has often made it very difficult to place a genealogical synopsis of the real facts in historic timelines. However, through traditional processes which have been followed thoroughly these barriers are now being uplifted and historical veils have been opened to create solid pathways for the future.
In the very limited historical reference, the Ndebele State of Matabeleland has been limited to the iconic military achievements of General Mzilikazi who gained kingship through conquest of other nations including the assassination of Ndebele Kings Magodonga of the Ndzudza and Sibindi of the Manala in the 1820s. Mzilikazi used the Identity Ndebele south of the Limpopo where he further integrated other nations and nationalities into a much more diverse Ndebele Nation. The very royal houses that were destroyed and their spiritual power used in a traditional process called ukuthwala became pillars in the spiritual realm of the Matabele/Mthwakazi nation. In many years the identity Ndebele and those who associate with it or have close links have suffered devastatingly including carrying a burden of a Genocide before, during and after…
Nearly 200 years after the death of King Sibindi near present day Pretoria, the Sibindi household has finally regained momentum and is restoring its heritage. Speaking at the event Prince Professor Athenia Sibindi emphasized that important historic facts cannot be wiped out no matter how much propaganda is used. He further stated in clear terms that restoration of the Royal Sibindi House is in process and cannot be disturbed by any force or anyone. While also further emphasizing the role of the house beyond simply restoring legacy but further making sure those that nations and people that have been bound together in fate since the fall of King Sibindi come together to craft a future agenda significant in unchaining and leading Africa in the broader sense.
Prince Ayanda Manala Sibindi once an attaché in the Mpumalanga Royal Palace has played a vital role in retracing the broken and lost roots.He emphasized on the need for the Sibindi family to grasp what is in front of them with great bravery and finish the task at hand. Prince Ayanda further noted that while the legacy of General Mzilikazi cannot be wiped away, other important historic facts also cannot be thrown away as they have a bearing on the Ndebele people in South Africa and Matabeleland.
Other Sibindi royal representatives emphasized the 3-factor task ahead of them which are classified as follows.
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Clarify and trace of the Ndebele roots in the broader sense beyond colonial narratives and boundaries.
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Break all forms of Ndebele chains in all spheres of life and correct false and biased historic narratives in both territories for both the Northern and Southern Ndebele.
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Protect the legacy of the Ndebele heritage in the broader sense and defend all who identify with it.
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Inkosi Makerana Mabhena one of the recognized Royal traditional leaders of the Manala Clan of the Ndebele in South Africa graced the occasion in Nyathi as a special guest of honor. His message was clear on making sure the two nations create and forge a united effort in uplifting the lives of the Ndebele people in all spheres and protecting the legacy of their forefathers and ensuring a future for generations to come.