Some of the local traditional leaders who graced the event
Nowalala – Ntabankulu (19 September 2025)
As the whole country continues to celebrate Heritage and Tourism Month, the Amacwerha Clan was no exception as they successfully held an event at Nowalala Village to celebrate and observe their rich cultural heritage, diversity as well as showcasing local tourism potential in the area.
Amacwerha from all over the country came to celebrate their roots notable with representation from eNgcobo, East London, Cofimvaba, Butterworth, Ntabankulu, Mthatha, Tsolo, Qumbu, Flagstaff, Sterkspruit Mount Frere, Qgeberha, Libode, Gatyana, Ugie, Lady Frere, Mbizana, Mqanduli, Cape Town, Johannesburg and Mount Ayliff. The event is held annually in partnership with the Baleka Mbethe foundation.
This fun filled day was characterized by traditional music performances; horse riding, storytelling and sharing the rich Amacwerha cultural lineage with guests including the clan’s young people who are expected to take the lead in preserving their history and customs. The event was also used to educate and equip young people to be in a position to comprehend life’s daily challenges whilst also emphasizing discipline.
Amongst the dignitaries who graced the event included former Parliamentary Speaker Mme Baleka Mbethe, Mawethu Pinyane – COGTA District Director, Cllr. ZE Joyi representing the Mayor of Ntabankulu Local Municipality, Chief KC Siyoyo of the Amacwerha Traditional Council, Chief M Diko of Amanci Traditional Council, and Chief N Sigcawu of Ulwandle Olubomvu Traditional Council and Inkosi Zwelihlangene of the Amacwerha Council.
In his heart-warming address Inkosi Jonginyaniso Sigwiji of Nowalala Traditional Council welcomed the guests to his premises and assured them of the Amacwerha hospitality.
Explaining the purpose of the day Mr. Mambafula said the event has been held for three consecutive years without fail. He appreciated the efforts by the Chief Sigwiji for making sure that this annual event continues to grow in leaps and bounds and showcases the heritage and aspirations of Amacwerha.
Mambafula called upon young people to stay away from incidents of juvenile delinquency thus making sure that they are healthy and will be responsible parents of the future. “We are also proud that the event also brings closer to the people government services without travelling to town,” concluded Mambafula.
Speaking on behalf of the Youth Prince Mnikelo Mgoqi called for young people to be at the centre of rural development initiatives. Said Magoqi, “Let’s unite in making sure that local economic development begins with us. I’m calling for meaningful participation in economic activities by young people.”
Delivering the message of support Mme. Baleka Mbethe thanked Amacwerha for their warm welcome and hospitality at Nowalala. She further called for Amacwerha and Amahlubi to continue working together and make sure that local initiatives succeed.
One of the participants Luanda Mngeyiyana, who came all the way from Engcobo to support the event, was impressed with the level of organization showed by event managers and further praised the unity of the clan, “As young people we come to gatherings like this one to learn more about our history and traditions. We are also custodians of the future of the clan and our presence here speaks volumes.”
At the event various government institutions and the private sector brought services closer to the community. The departments included department of Health, SASSA, Department of Health, Ntabankulu Local Municipality and Sanlam.
Traditional group entertainers mesmerized guests and left an indelible mark to the cultural pundits. The groups included; Veynasi Cultural group, Umbhobho Ongatshiyo, Aphakama Foundation Girls, Thembisa ka Sokoloji. The event also displayed splendid Amaxhosa traditional attire with participants dressed to the teeth. Picture Credit – Lulamile Mntsantsa
