Ndebele culture shines in Manchester at iSintu saMahlabezulu Heritage Day

By Ndumiso Tshuma

The vibrant sounds of isiNdebele music, traditional dances, and the rich colours of cultural regalia filled the air in Manchester as Zimbabweans in the diaspora came together to honour their heritage during the second annual iSintu saMahlabezulu Heritage Culture Day.

The event, held on 28 June 2025, drew Ndebele families, cultural custodians, artists, elders, and community leaders from across the United Kingdom and Europe.

Organised by iSintu saMahlabezulu, a cultural movement launched in July 2024, the gathering marked a growing diaspora effort to preserve and promote Ndebele culture and identity among generations born or raised far from Zimbabwe.

The roots of the movement trace back to Imbizo yaMahlabezulu, a historic cultural dialogue held in Manchester in July 2024. It was there that Zimbabweans based in the UK committed to preserving their ancestral values and traditions through structured community efforts.

What began as a grassroots initiative has since evolved into a thriving cultural organisation, with Manchester now serving as its official home base in the UK.

“This is not just an event, it’s a cultural and spiritual movement,” said Roy Mtshazo Ndlovu, Secretary General of iSintu saMahlabezulu United Kingdom Chapter. “Our mission is to promote and develop the heritage of amaNdebele, to educate and inspire, and to build a strong sense of identity and pride, especially among our youth.”

This year’s celebration was described as larger and more inclusive, showcasing a variety of traditional performances, food, storytelling, fashion, and educational programmes that immersed attendees in the essence of Ndebele culture.

Ndlovu said the movement’s goals go beyond cultural preservation, they include fostering unity and social inclusion among Zimbabweans abroad.

“We are working to break down barriers between people of different cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs,” he said. “By creating shared spaces where traditions are respected and celebrated, we build stronger communities. We believe a nation that forgets its roots is a nation that loses its soul.”

Amid the cultural festivities, organisers were quick to clarify that iSintu saMahlabezulu is not aligned to any political ideology. Its focus, they say, is solely on heritage, tradition, and communal identity.

“The culture of amaHlabezulu is not political,” said Ndlovu. “We don’t involve ourselves in politics. We honour our roots, our language, and our customs, these are the foundations that unite us as a people.”

With growing momentum and support across Europe, organisers say iSintu saMahlabezulu plans to expand its cultural programming, with regular events, language workshops, youth mentorship, and heritage preservation initiatives in the pipeline.

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