Local octogenarian honoured
Zululander honored for his contribution to South African Heritage
AN elderly Zululand resident, Skhusu Mzimela (85) has been described as a ‘walking encyclopedia’ of Zulu history and lore as he was honoured with an Amafa Heritage award in Pietermaritzburg last Friday.
The Amafa Heritage KZN awards are presented to individuals and groups that contribute to preserving and fostering the heritage of the province.
Mzimela is respected for his knowledge of the oral history of the province and its people.
Born in Dlangubo, just outside Eshowe, Baba Mzimela, as he is affectionately addressed, said he learnt all he knows from his elders.
Mzimela did not attend any form of schooling. He looked after the cattle on the family farm and always listened to the stories that his mother and other elders told.
Mzimela believes that heritage was important and he wanted his grandchildren and great grandchildren to understand their history and the history of others in South Africa.
He was also a member of the uKhiphinkuzi regiment, which was founded by King Bhekuzulu Nyangayezizwe kaSolomon, father of the current Zulu king.
Mzimela is fond of the history of Isihlahla Samagwala, which directly translated as ‘The cowards’ tree’.
It is an area where Shaka Zulu grouped and groomed his soldiers for war; however, if they were considered cowards and showed agony when put through certain tests, they were killed.
Zinhle Ndaba, project manager in planning and economic development at the uThungulu District Municipality, said, ‘We call him a walking encyclopedia because he has a lot of historical knowledge that he could remember at his age and teach others about. He has contributed to a great deal of information for many people without expecting payment.’
