In a very spirited attempt to re – organize society, community and re – build a shattered nation the people of Matabeleland alias Mthwakazi have in the past few years-initiated events of National Historic Significance. These events have been growing exponentially roping in the next generation in the true full awareness of the true history and valiant past of the warrior nation.
One such event of significance is the Battle of Mbembesi celebrated at the site of battle where the famous Imbizo together with other regiments fell to colonial forces of Cecil John road’s Pioneer Column. This was to be the most decisive Battle in the resistance of colonialism by the Ndebele State after the fall of Imbizo King Lobengula had to abandon his capital and flee the invading forces to avoid capture decapitation and humiliation. His legendary exit followed with a rare victory of an ancient African military offensive at Phuphu where a search party from the Pioneer Column was completely wiped out by Ndebele military forces.
The true history of these events is no longer taught in schools. Founded in 2006 organizers of this colorful annual event Umhlahlo Wesizwe SikaMthwakazi a civic organization initially setup as an umbrella body fighting for the self-determination and ultimate emancipation of the Matabeleland people. It was initiated by major community organizations, influential leaders and a certain number of Chiefs. It is the organization that orchestrated distinct national awareness through the publications of various documents aided by its anchor partner organization the Matabeleland Literature Bureau (a body made up of historic expects). Needless to say, the body in its prime produced more than 29 thematic reports on the perennial human rights violations of the Matabeleland people and submitted them to the United Nations Human Rights Bodies.
Today the annual event has become a very colorful event uniting the Nation across and creating a platform of pride and a rekindled spirit of resistance.