SA: Mbuso Khoza to present Isandlwana Lecture in Soweto

The lecture, which is traditionally held in January, was delayed due to the COVID-19 restrictions. It assesses how the British Army was defeated by Zulu warriors about 140 years ago and typically enacts the true-life events of the Anglo-Zulu War. Isandlwana is presented through narration, music and dance, and features Khoza’s Afrikan Heritage Ensemble, a 20-member a cappella group.

“It is said that delay does not mean denial,” Khoza said. “We are excited that there has been some progress in containing the spread of the brutal coronavirus, which led to the battle of Isandlwana music lecture being put on hold.”

“Our safety comes first, and it is our responsibility as a people to abide by the rules that ultimately save lives. It has been a challenging period in terms of maintaining our livelihood, but we are happy that we can bring people together during the month of May to celebrate not just one milestone, but two.”

Khoza said the event was a story of pride not only for the Zulu people but for Africans as it marked a new era for Africa and its colonisers.

“Over five and a half decades ago, Africans came out to exhibit their determination to free themselves from foreign exploitation and domination and declared 25 May as Africa Day. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we thought it to be an opportune time to bring the biggest African victory to the stage of festivities and have our Isandlwana Musical Lecture presentation during this month.”

Khoza implored that art played a significant role in channelling the message of unity and hope across the continent.

“We continue to draw inspiration from our roots as we redefine our identity using the body of work bequeathed to us by our forebears in the arts, culture and intellectual disciplines,” he said. “I believe that as an artist, my job is to mirror the views and feelings of my people. Africa Month serves as a tool to spread the message of patriotism and victory. With the universal language of music, we want to contribute towards strengthening our role in society.”

Tickets to the event are available for purchase here.