A distinguished Zulu warrior commander, Prince Vanana Zulu, has referred to as for a shift in how conventional leaders are addressed, urging folks to consult with them as Inkosi (Kings) as an alternative of Induna (Chief), a time period extra generally utilized in Zimbabwe.
He made the remarks throughout the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Awards, held in Nkayi District, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, on 4 and 5 April.
Honouring a King, Not Only a Chief
Prince Vanana, who travelled from the Zulu Kingdom in South Africa, mentioned it was essential to acknowledge the standing of conventional leaders utilizing acceptable titles that replicate their heritage and authority.
“I’m from the Zulu Kingdom, and little by little, we’re studying loads,” he mentioned. “Dakamela is a king, and the phrase Induna will come to an finish.”
His feedback have been about Chief Mbusi Bekithemba Dakamela, a revered younger conventional chief whose imaginative and prescient has impressed a rising motion to raise and honour conventional management throughout the area.
Dakamela’s Legacy Attracts a Pan-African Crowd
The occasion introduced collectively tons of of attendees, not solely from throughout Zimbabwe however from completely different components of the African continent. Alongside Zulu folks from South Africa have been members of the Venda, Sotho, and Tsonga communities. Attendees additionally got here from as far afield as Tanzania and Zambia, reflecting the occasion’s rising pan-African attraction.
In regards to the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Awards
Often known as the Dakamela Achievers Awards, the Imiklomelo kaDakamela Awards is an annual occasion initiated in 2022 by Chief Mbusi Bekithemba Dakamela. The awards goal to honour people and organisations for his or her important contributions to society, with a robust concentrate on preserving and selling Ndebele tradition and traditions.
The occasion serves as a platform for recognising excellence throughout numerous sectors, together with well being, training, management, and social growth. By celebrating each cultural and civic achievements, the awards encourage neighborhood satisfaction and intergenerational connection.
Through the two-day celebration, the chief honoured a number of people and teams for his or her neighborhood contributions. Educators, healthcare employees, cultural activists, and conventional practitioners acquired applause for his or her efforts.

Authorities Help Acknowledged
Prince Vanana expressed gratitude to the Zimbabwean authorities for supporting the occasion and making certain its success.
The Imiklomelo kaDakamela Awards proceed to function a significant cultural establishment in Zimbabwe, bridging communities, honouring heritage, and selling the dignity and relevance of conventional management within the fashionable period.
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