The monarch of the Zulu nation in South Africa (SA), King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, has publicly voiced his frustration over what he describes as being routinely sidelined from major diplomatic and state events hosted within his traditional territory.
Addressing young maidens gathered at the eMachobeni Royal Palace in Ngwavuma for the annual uMkhosi Womhlanga (Reed Dance) cultural festival, the King singled out the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit held in KwaZulu-Natal province as a primary example. As the traditional custodian of the land, he stated that hosting high-level international gatherings without informing or inviting the monarchy constitutes a serious lack of protocol and respect. He revealed that visiting foreign dignitaries, including a high-ranking Nigerian official, had questioned why the SA government appears to keep the monarch isolated from official state functions.
The annual Reed Dance ceremony continues to serve as a key cultural anchor for the nation, with this year’s celebrations split across two royal venues.
–ChannelAfrica–
