(Zulu 200 Chairman Duma Ndlovu (right) talks to
King Zwelithini during Umgidi Welembe 2011. Pic Ntokozo Madlala)
Zulu 200 will stage
a splendid historic pageant at King Shaka International Airport near Durban on September
29, in anticipation of the Bicentenary of the Zulu Nation in 2016.
The year 2016 marks
the 200th Anniversary of the formation of the Zulu Nation by King Shaka
kaSenzangakhona. To highlight this momentous historic event, Zulu 200, an
initiative led by His Majesty, King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, is staging
a spectacular annual celebration at KwaZulu-Natal’s King Shaka International
Airport, as part of the build-up to the bicentennial celebrations which will
climax in 2016.
Zulu 200 was
conceived and is being driven by CEO Mandla KaNozulu and Chairman Duma Ndlovu.
The initiative seeks to enhance awareness of the multi-faceted historic and
cultural landscapes that comprise the legacy of the Zulu Kingdom and its
people. It will see the production of literary, audio and film materials, to
empower and inspire citizens of KwaZulu-Natal through information, education
and connectivity.
Following the
launch of the project in 2011 at King Shaka International Airport, this year’s
pageant, which is supported by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government,
Ethekwini Municipality, the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), Metro Rail
and KwaCulture, will take place on September 29.
Reflecting the rich
tapestry of history of the Zulu nation, this red-letter event on the cultural
calendar of KwaZulu-Natal will see hundreds of traditional Zulu dancers, Reed
Dance maidens, Izimbongi and musicians performing before a distinguished
audience headed by the Zulu King, with the Premiere of KwaZulu-Natal and many
other front line national and provincial dignitaries in attendance.
Endorsing King
Shaka International Airport as a living monument to its historic namesake as
the founder of the Zulu Nation, the Airport Terminal façade and interiors will
be dressed in celebratory cladding for the royal occasion. This is expected to
draw a crowd of some 5,000 invited guests and onlookers to enjoy the
spectacular cultural display.
Adding a further
dimension to the colourful festivities, a week-long exhibition of traditional
Zulu art and craft will be on display on the airport site preceding and during
the day-long celebration.
Proceedings on the
day will start with a parade through the King Shaka Airport terminal building,
leading to a designated area nearby, where performances will take place from
10h00 to 17h00, following an opening address by King Zwelithini. The day’s
programme will culminate with presentations, and performances by maskandi
groups. Admission is free and all are welcome.
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