In a powerful statement at the unveiling of a new 12-metre statue of King Shaka kaSenzangakhona at Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini affirmed his commitment to protecting Zulu land amid tensions with the South African government over control of the Ingonyama Trust. The trust, which manages 2.8 million hectares of Zulu tribal land, remains central to the Zulu nation, with the king serving as its sole trustee and chairperson.
Addressing the significance of land to the Zulu people, King Misuzulu said, “The king is nothing without the land, and the people are nothing without the land.” His comments followed recent concerns over governmental efforts that the king believes threaten the trust’s authority and, by extension, Zulu heritage and autonomy. Earlier this year, the king even hinted at taking the government to the International Court of Justice to address these grievances.
Honouring King Shaka’s Legacy
King Misuzulu’s speech evoked the legacy of King Shaka, a revered figure who is remembered for unifying the Zulu people and establishing a deep connection to the land. “Land is more than soil; it is our home, the source of our food, and the resting place of our ancestors,” he said, pledging to uphold his ancestors’ legacy by defending the land at all costs.
He credited King Shaka’s visionary leadership for laying the foundations of a unified and resilient Zulu nation. “King Shaka had a unique understanding of the land and his people. He knew each hill, every river, and took a personal interest in his realm,” Misuzulu stated. He emphasised that his commitment to safeguarding Zulu land honours not only his father, the late King Zwelithini, but also “the monarchs, Amakhosi, and warriors who protected this land in their time.”
President Ramaphosa and Premier Thami Ntuli Celebrate Shaka’s Vision
President Cyril Ramaphosa, who spoke at the event, reflected on King Shaka’s enduring influence, noting his ability to unite the Zulu people. Ramaphosa praised Shaka’s legacy of courage and principled leadership, adding, “He put the interests of his people first, forging alliances and unifying amaZulu under a common identity and purpose.”
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli also lauded King Shaka’s impact, calling him a visionary leader whose governance continues to shape the region’s heritage and identity. “This statue symbolises our shared commitment to cultural heritage tourism, in line with the government’s vision to preserve and celebrate our collective history,” Ntuli said.
Security Incident During the Ceremony
The ceremony saw a minor disruption when a woman attempted to breach security and approach the stage where King Misuzulu and Ramaphosa were seated. She was swiftly restrained by metro police and the president’s VIP protection unit. Further details on the incident have yet to be released, with national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe unavailable for comment at the time of publication.
The statue of King Shaka, replacing a previous sculpture, stands as a tribute to a leader celebrated for his strength, unity, and dedication to his people. This historic unveiling reaffirms the enduring bond between the Zulu nation and its ancestral land, with King Misuzulu vowing to protect it for future generations.
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