Shaka iLembe stars to headline major traditional event in Zimbabwe

Fans of Shaka iLembe are in for a treat as two stars from the hit Mzansi Magic drama series are set to headline the Mzilikazi celebrations in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

Popular actors Mpilo Mbatha and Dawn Thandeka King, who feature prominently in the epic historical series, are expected to be among the major attractions at the celebrations on Saturday.

According to B-Metro, the event is being organised by the Mthwakazi kaMzilikazi Cultural Association (MMCA) and is expected to attract traditional leaders, Government officials, tourists, cultural enthusiasts and people from Zimbabwe and beyond.

Mbatha plays Mzilikazi in Shaka iLembe, while King portrays Mkabayi, making their appearance particularly significant at an event celebrating the legacy and history associated with King Mzilikazi.

Shaka iLembe stars join Khuzani at Zimbabwe event

The actors will be joined by South African Maskandi star Khuzani Mpungose, who is also expected to be one of the major attractions at the celebrations.

Delegations from other African countries and royal houses are also expected in Bulawayo for the event, adding an international dimension to the celebrations.

The festivities will begin with a colourful cultural parade from Matshobana Township at 7am.

Amatshitshi, Amaguqa, Abafana and Amabutho will lead the procession, with traditionally dressed participants expected to pass through some of Bulawayo’s well-known landmarks.

These include Barbourfields Stadium, home of Highlanders Football Club, the Inxwala Grounds and the statue of the late Vice-President Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo.

The parade will end at the Large City Hall car park before participants are transported to eMhlahlandlela for the main celebrations.

Remembering the King Mzilikazi

King Mzilikazi, once a trusted general under King Shaka, broke away from the Zulu kingdom in the early 19th century and led his followers northwards.

His leadership eventually gave birth to the Ndebele kingdom in present-day Zimbabwe.

Today, he is celebrated for his military brilliance, state-building skills, and ability to unite people of different backgrounds under one nation.

In Bulawayo, cultural performances, praise poetry, and community gatherings marked the commemoration, offering a chance to reconnect with history.

Shaka iLembe connection comes full circle

The arrival of the Shaka iLembe stars comes at an interesting time, following calls from young Zimbabweans last year for Mzilikazi’s story to receive similar treatment on screen.

During last year’s celebrations, The South African spoke exclusively to young people in Bulawayo about the importance of preserving and sharing the legacy of King Mzilikazi.

Prudence Khumalo, a young woman linked to the Mzilikazi royal lineage, said the success of Shaka iLembe had inspired her to dream of seeing Mzilikazi’s story brought to a global audience.

“Mzilikazi was a great leader, but many young people don’t know enough about him,” she said. “Shaka iLembe inspired us, and I believe Zimbabwe should also produce a film about Mzilikazi so the world can know his story.”