The Queen Loziba Thebe Development Trust, in partnership with the Khumalo and Thebe families, held a vibrant cultural event in Kopa village, Nyathi, on Saturday to commemorate the life and legacy of Queen Loziba.
Queen Loziba, one of the wives of King Mzilikazi, the founder of the Ndebele nation, died in 1862 and was buried at Kopa.
As a mark of love and recognition of her significant role, King Mzilikazi buried her in his kraal, an honour traditionally reserved for warriors and leaders.
The commemoration began with a procession to her gravesite, where family representative Vusumuzi Khumalo highlighted the Queen’s contribution to the establishment of the UCCSA church in Inyathi.
“She pioneered peace in the community by helping missionaries set up their church. That was a very important part of this community, fostering peace and harmony,” Khumalo said.
Trust chairperson Vuyo Mpofu explained that the idea of an annual commemoration emerged last year during the unveiling of Queen Loziba’s tombstone.
“The family suggested that we hold annual cultural ceremonies to celebrate her life and achievements. As a Trust, we have been working closely with the family to make this event possible,” Mpofu said.
“Queen Loziba played many significant roles that deserve recognition. For example, in the establishment of the UCCSA, she ensured that missionaries were given space to work effectively. This area was originally mission land, but the mission later gave the land to the people, allowing them to build their homes here. Queen Loziba was instrumental in fostering that relationship between the church and the community.”