The leadership of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, led by President Jacob Zuma and Deputy President Dr. John Hlophe, joined royal dignitaries, politicians, and community leaders on Saturday to mark a historic occasion — the 50-year milestone honoring the Queens of the late King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu.
The grand celebration, steeped in tradition and cultural pride, paid tribute to the enduring legacy of King Zwelithini’s Queens, who have played an instrumental role in preserving Zulu customs, uplifting communities, and embodying the strength of the royal household across generations.
The commemoration, held in Ulundi, was highlighted by traditional performances, ceremonial rituals, and addresses celebrating the Queens’ contributions to the Zulu nation.
Zuma, whose political career has long been intertwined with the Zulu monarchy, emphasized the importance of honoring the Queens, describing them as “pillars of cultural continuity and custodians of our heritage.
Dr. Hlophe echoed the sentiment, noting that the milestone celebration was not just a royal event but also a national recognition of women’s resilience in leadership roles within society.
King Zwelithini, who reigned from 1968 until his passing in 2021, left behind a formidable legacy as the longest-serving Zulu monarch. The Queens, central to his reign, remain vital symbols of dignity, stability, and tradition within the royal household.
Saturday’s event underscored the intersection of culture, politics, and history, with the MK Party’s high-level attendance signaling its continued alignment with traditional institutions.
