The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government will join His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini KaBhekuzulu who will lead Zulu regiments to the mountain of Isandlwana in Nquthu for the commemoration of the epic Batttle of Isandlwana on Saturday, 25 January 2020.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Mr Sihle Zikalala, Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC Hlengiwe Mavimbela and other provincial cabinet members will join His Majesty, the King of the Zulus, during this colourful annual re-enactment of the battle which attracts a large number of local and international visitors and has become one of the province’s tourism draw cards.

The Battle of Isandlwana was fought in January 22, 1879 and was one of the first in the six-month long Anglo-Zulu War. The battle was among the first defeats ever inflicted on the British empire.

After the British commenced their invasion of Zululand, some 20 000 Zulu warriors attacked a portion of the British main column, consisting 1 800 British, colonial and native troops.

The Zulu warriors were armed mainly with the traditional spears and cow-hide shields while the British troops were armed with the modern Martini-Henry breech-loading rifles and 7-pounder mountain guns. Despite all that, the Zulu warriors ultimately overpowered the heavily armed British, killing more than 1 300 troops. The Zulu army also suffered hundreds of casualties.

The significance of this epic battle continues to resonate with all generations as it entrenches the importance of heritage which His Majesty and his subjects are very proud of.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has also identified the Battle of Isandlwana as one of the platforms through which it advocates reconciliation and social cohesion.

Members of the media are invited to cover this historic and culturally important event.  

Details are as follows:

Date: Saturday, 25 January 2020

Time: 09h00

Venue: Isandlwana Battlefied, Nquthu

For more information, contact:

Prince Thulani Zulu

Zulu Royal Family

082 040 6610

OR

Lennox Mabaso

Provincial Government Spokesperson 

082 884 2403

OR

Phathisa Mfuyo

Arts, Culture, Sport & Recreation spokeswoman 

083 798 4525