Story: Linda Magazi
The town of Indwe came alive with colour, rhythm, and tradition as the Emalahleni Local Municipality hosted a vibrant cultural celebration at the Indwe Resort in honor of Heritage, Legacy, and Culture Month.
Community members dressed in traditional attire such as imibhaco, izikhakha, and adorned themselves with beads and bells to proudly display and celebrate their rich African heritage. The event drew participants of all ages and backgrounds, uniting the community in song, dance, and storytelling.
Traditional elements were on full display, oomama bomngqungqo, amakhwenkwe ombelayo, iintombi, and Gumboot dancers wowed the crowd with spirited performances. Artists, including seamstresses and painters, also showcased their crafts, further adding to the festive atmosphere.
The Mayor of Emalahleni Municipality, Councilor Nontombizanele Koni, attended the event, accompanied by municipal councilors, various government departments, and stakeholders from different organizations.
Delivering the keynote address was Chief Gwazinamba Matanzima, who took the audience on a powerful journey through the customs and traditions of their ancestors. He emphasized the importance of respectful behavior among married individuals, young men, and especially maidens. He voiced concern over the erosion of cultural values, particularly among young women, citing poor conduct, lack of home training, and diminishing parental guidance.
Chief Matanzima highlighted modern issues such as the loss of dignity among young women, many of whom he said are misled by materialism. His speech stressed the need to reclaim and preserve cultural practices, to correctly use isiXhosa language, and to ensure that ancestral traditions are not lost to future generations.
Mayor Koni applauded the success of the event; praising both the community’s participation and Chief Matanzima’s address, “This cultural programme was a great success,” she said. “Chief Matanzima touched on many important issues that aim to educate the community and correct behaviors that have shifted away from our traditional norms.”
