Izithakazelo Zakwa Mnguni Clan Names History and Origin
Mnguni was the leader of the Nguni nation in Southern Africa. All Nguni tribes including Zulus, Xhosas and Ndebele can trace their heritage back to Mnguni; hence their common name.
Due to globalization, surnames have spread beyond their countries of origin and it can often be hard to tell who may or may not be related.
Mnguni Clan Names
- Mnguni
- Zulu
- Swazi
- Ndebele
- Mthethwa
- Ndlovu
- Khumalo
- Ntuli
- Mthembu
- Ngcobo
- Nxumalo
- Cele
- Dlamini
- Gumede
- Shabalala
- Zungu
- Mkhize
- Majozi
- Hlongwane
- Zwane
Khonjwayo
Khonjwayo people were historically part of the Mpondo Kingdom in Eastern Cape and held positions of leadership patrilineally. These Nguni-speaking tribes have for centuries inhabited an area between Mtata and Mtamvuna rivers in South Africa’s Eastern Province.
Sarili ka Mpondomise founded Pondoland Kingdom after failing to unite all Xhosa clans against Cape Colony annexation through two pitched battles fought on his behalf by Cape Colony forces. Unfortunately, after suffering two such defeats himself he was ultimately forced into exile in Pondoland.
The first respondent published in the provincial gazette its decision to recognise Thozamile Sithelo as headman of Lower Ndungunyeni and invited all interested parties to make submissions by 30 September.
They stated they will consider any objections received before taking a final decision regarding Sithelo being recognised as headman of Lower Ndungunyeni. Among these interested parties is Chief Dumisani Gwadiso who serves as chairperson of 3rd respondent as well as applicant in rescission application proceedings.
Masiqale
Masiqale is an urban-based clan in South Africa’s Ngqalibone community of Western Cape province. Based out of Mowbray township, Masiqale belongs to the African National Congress (ANC) and boasts several high-profile members; known for engaging in various racial and economic struggles while simultaneously becoming involved with criminal investigations.
Masiqale may derive its name from an Xhosa word meaning to provide “great wealth”. Additionally, it may refer to African terms for lion and could even refer to an area where people gather to hunt game.
Though small in number, the Masiqale clan is widely recognized for its strength and power. Members have used its resources to achieve success and recognition in business.
Its members pride themselves in upholding cultural identity while working tirelessly to maintain it; also known for its sense of humor that helps overcome life’s difficulties makes being around them enjoyable experience.
Ngcekula
Ngcekula is the Mnguni clan associated with Enoch Sontonga, who wrote South Africa’s National Anthem “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika”. Ndubuisi Mdlala also hails from this clan; her song, Uyatshayo” forms part of this Anthem.
The Ngcekula clan can trace their lineage all the way back to Sibiside and Dlemini who, through progeny such as Mpondo and Mpondomise (twins) as well as Xesibe, founded their clan.
AmaMpondo and amaQwathi clans are related, although amaQwathi has since settled more than 350 years ago in Thembuland and adopted its culture and politics more closely than is the case with amaMpondo clan.
Additionally, this Mnguni clan may have links with amaHlubi as well. Based on Mhlontlo of the amaMpondomise and Gecelo of the amaHlubi both serving as chiefs during the Anti-Colonial Revolt of 1880. While amaHlubi were defeated and their kingdom destroyed, their descendants remain present today in Eastern Cape where they continue their rich culture, history and traditions while being highly esteemed for hospitality and intelligence.
Ntsikinyana
Ntsikana was one of the primary interpreters of Christian concepts into African spirituality that spoke directly to amaXhosa without forcing Christianity on them. He integrated traditional Xhosa beliefs with Christianity through songs such as “Ulo Thixo omkhulu ngosezulwini”.
Ntsikinyana lived the traditional Xhosa lifestyle of circumcision, polygamy and praise as an orator and singer. He was highly esteemed among his Gaba tribe members and served as an adviser for Ngqika.
His cosmology emphasized peace and submission to God. This stood in stark contrast to that of the war-doctor Nxele who believed that good and evil must fight one another – those who do not submit will be consumed by firewood and ants.
Ntsikana’s dichotomous views on spirituality and cultural development was the catalyst that precipitated Xhosa nationalism versus European colonialism clashing, but today young Xhosa are leaning more toward Nxele’s nationalist theology rather than Ntsikana’s humility.
Mshengu
Mshengu is a clan name with centuries of history that helps preserve Zulu culture and heritage. Not like traditional South African clan names, Mshengu honors Zulu ancestors across multiple families while serving as a way of differentiating individuals from others in society.
Sam Chabalala, more commonly known by his clan name Mshengu, quickly shot to national attention in July 2019 when images of his fleet of luxury cars driving down to Durban for horse races trended on social media. Most of them featured personalized number plates featuring Mshengu.
Mshengu is a clan name with a long and distinguished history dating back to Pietermaritzburg in the 18th century. It is thought to have been named for a warrior called Mshengu who sided with Britain and died at Lions River battle, yet its members continue to thrive today worldwide – unlike women, who typically change their surname upon marriage, men maintain their clan name even after divorce proceedings have concluded.
