Beloved Zululand chief laid to rest

THE bright sun shone on the west uHwebede and Ngqofela mountains, as eMacambini Chief Khayelihle Wiseman Mathaba, was laid to rest in his royal ancestral burial ground on Sunday.

Thousands gathered at eMacambini Sportsground, to celebrate the life and legacy of Zululand’s beloved Inkosi.

Hundreds of his fellow bikers from various associations, led the convoy to the stadium. They hooted and revved their engines, while spinning on the dusty field – creating a unique bikers anthem. To respect the fallen Inkosi, they took off their helmets and raised them with their right hands.

Various musicians such as Hlengiwe Mhlaba, United Boys and the Mathubesizwe Choir sang in perfect harmony during the Christian but traditional service.

The mood was altogether different from any other funerals, with Zulu warriors (Ibutho) in full traditional attire chanting and singing for the Inkosi.

The wind blew gently through the green valleys, when the Ibutho carried the casket to the graveside. They performed a dance, sending the departed on his journey into the afterlife.

The Inkosi died in a car crash on the R66 road in Nkwalini last Saturday. His body was reportedly only found inside his vehicle on Sunday.

Political leaders, including KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu, KZN Traditional Affairs MEC Nomusa Dube, Inkosi Mandela, National Freedom Party leader Zanele kaMagwaza-Msibi, religious and traditional leaders came to pay their last respects to their friend and colleague.