Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival takes place as Mpondo nation’s mourning period ends
By HRH Stella Sigcau
1 September 2022
The 1st of September marks the end of the nation’s mourning period for the passing of the late King Zanozuko Tyelovuyo Sigcau . Her Majesty Acting Queen Nobandla Sigcau and the Royal family thanks all who observed this period and rendered support during this difficult time. Some activities were suspended during this period including festivals, initiations, ukubekwa kweeNkosi (coronation of Traditional Leaders) to mention a few. These activities will now resume.
September in South Africa is a month that is dedicated to celebrating diverse cultures and heritage. Her Majesty wishes the Mpondo nation and South Africans at large a happy heritage month. The AmaMpondo nation has a rich history, culture and heritage that they continue to embrace and take pride in.
The Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival that takes place annually since 2006 is one of the events that promotes, shares and preserves Mpondo culture and heritage. This year it will take place from 10-11 September 2022 in Ntabankulu. Commonly known as Umgubho wamaMpondo preceded by the Mpondo Reed Dance it will be attended by diverse cultures from South Africa and beyond including Pedi, Tswana, Sotho, Ndebele, Xhosa, Bhaca, Tsonga Kingdoms and Chieftainships. This also serves to promote unity in a diversity of cultures.
Botswana and Turkey have been included in this year's performances and exhibitions. Mpondo horse parade, traditional dances and food, site visits including to Magwa falls, Mbotyi and the Wild coast will form part of the activities to promote culture and environmental tourism aiming to boost cultural and rural economy. Preceding the cultural celebrations will be the Princess Stella Sigcau II manufacturing skills training initiative that includes, shoes, sandals, cosmetics, meat processing training in Lusikisiki, Mbizana, Ntabankulu and eMaxesibeni.