|
15 December 2003
The News Editor
Media Invitation
Umkhosi Wokweshwama/The Celebration of First Fruits
December 20-21 at Enyokeni Royal Palace, Nongoma
The annual First Fruits Celebration Ceremony/Umkhosi
Wokweshwama, organised by the KZN Department of Education,
takes place at Enyokeni Royal Palace, KwaNongoma, starting on 20-21 December.
The function commences at 11h30.
This is a very important occasion in the Zulu Nation,
because, traditionally, the Zulu Monarch, King Goodwill Zwelithini, has to eat
the first produce and pray to God (uMvelinqangi) to bless the land to produce
abundant good food for His people. During this event, young men/amabutho are
invited by the King to participate in different rituals.
What also makes this ceremony very important is the strong
belief that it strengthens the King and his Kingdom. The Zulu Monarch uses this
opportunity to talk to the Nation, more especially, to young men and old,
focussing on issues such as HIV/Aids, moral regeneration, fighting poverty and
the like. Furthermore he addresses men on how they should conduct themselves as
heads of their families and as role models in their communities. He also
encourages them to lead their communities in agricultural practices in order to
fight poverty.
Meanwhile, the Zulu King is to introduce forums for young and
old men, whereby issues of concern can be addressed; such as the role that men
can play in the leadership of their families. This extends to the
responsibilities they have to assume in fighting the spread of HIV/Aids, as well
as preventing the abuse of women and children within their communities. These
workshops are to be conducted in collaboration with local government and
traditional leadership structures. Already a number of prominent and dynamic
male speakers have shown keen interest in participating, and include members of
the Royal family, business personalities, the clergy, civil society and the
like. It is hoped; these programmes will also go hand in hand with the moral
regeneration campaign led by the Deputy President, Mr Jacob Zuma.
Latest reports are that a number of buses have been arranged
to transport amabutho from Empangeni and its surrounds, Hlabisa, Mahlabathini
and Nongoma to this function. Those intending to attend are requested to refrain
from wearing clothes depicting colours of their political parties.
Mandla Msibi
Director: Communication and Public Relations
Tel.: (035) 874 342
Cell: 083 461 6253
Fax: (035) 874 3640
Back |
