The history of the Nkumane people, known as ‘amaZizi asEbuhleni,’ unfolds like a mesmerizing tapestry woven with ancient strands of African heritage. Their journey is marked by migrations, cultural assimilations, and the formation of distinct kinship groups, leading to the establishment of the kingdom of Ebuhleni, a haven of peace and resistance against the waves of time.
Origins and Migrations
The Nkumane royals, ‘amaZizi asEbuhleni,’ are believed to descend from ‘Ntu,’ considered the first African person and ancestor of all Africans. This ancestral bloodline expanded from Egypt’s northern forests along the Nile River to the southern realms of Africa. The initial group, known as AmaNguni or the Nguni people, migrated southward, encountering, and assimilating with other tribes like the Khoikhoi herders.
Kinship Groups and Kingdoms
As AmaNguni moved south, they gave rise to separate groups, including amaMbo, amaNtungwa Nguni, amaLala Nguni, amaDebe Nguni, and amaThonga. Each group established its own identity, contributing to the rich tapestry of African cultures. Families within amaMbo, were the Dlamini’s, Mkhize’s, Ngwane’s, Mpondo’s and so on, diversified in homesteads and customs across different regions.
Royal Dynasties and Kingdoms
The Dlamini’s, led by Dlamini who was also called Matalatala, established a dynasty eSwatini, with subsequent generations founding new kingdoms. Zizi, one of Matalata’s sons, had descendants who migrated, spreading the family to the rest of Eswatini, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Despite diverse names adopted by new kingdoms, they identified themselves as amaZizi, emphasizing their shared heritage.
Drakensberg and Interactions with the San People
During the 18th century, the Drakensberg region was inhabited by the San people (Bushman) who stayed in the mountains. The arrival of amaZizi who stayed in the land nearby brought peaceful coexistence, subtle cultural exchange, and mutual influence between the two tribes. However, conflicts with amaNgwane who wanted to take over the land led to the displacement of amaZizi, and another tribe nearby called amaHlubi into the mountains.
Nkumane and the Foundation of Ebuhleni.
Facing attacks, the amaZizi king, Mzizi, commanded his sons to scatter and not identify as amaZizi but add Mzizi in their clan names so the future generations will know who they are. Nkumane his youngest son, known for his healing abilities, established Ebuhleni, a sacred place focusing on healing, art, and herbal remedies. Despite engaging in battles, Ebuhleni remained unconquered, attracting only royal houses seeking respite and mental health assistance.
Legacy and Balance
The Nkumane Royals, with a focus on healing and warrior training, have maintained a delicate balance between guarded privacy and openness. Ebuhleni, untouched by invasion, remains a sanctuary where gentleness, strength, and timeless traditions converge. The younger generation’s willingness to share certain aspects reflects a shift in the traditionally private nature of amaZizi asEbuhleni.
In the sacred grounds of Ebuhleni, the Nkumane Royals have forged a legacy that seamlessly blends the art of healing with the prowess of warriors. Rooted in a rich history of migrations, conflicts, and survival, amaZizi asEbuhleni maintain a delicate balance between guarded privacy and a newfound willingness to share their traditions. As the younger generation embraces a more open approach, the enduring allure of Ebuhleni continues to draw royal houses seeking solace and mental well-being. This enclave, untouched by invasion, remains a sanctuary where the past and present converge, allowing visitors to witness the unique harmony of gentleness, strength, and the timeless traditions of the Nkumane royals.
Nkumane People: AmaZizi asEbuhleni – A Tapestry of African Heritage
The history of the Nkumane people, known as ‘amaZizi asEbuhleni,’ unfolds like a mesmerizing tapestry woven with ancient strands of African heritage. Their journey is marked by migrations, cultural assimilations, and the formation of distinct kinship groups, leading to the establishment of the kingdom of Ebuhleni, a haven of peace and resistance against the waves of time.
