Prince Africa Zulu has been appointed as the new deputy royal chancellor of the Zulu kingdom
Image: Supplied
Former king Misuzulu kaZwelithini spokesperson Prince Africa Zulu of Onkweni residence has returned to the royal kraal as the new deputy royal chancellor.
Zulu is a descendant of Prince Shingana kaMpande who fought alongside his brother, king Cetshwayo kaMpande in the historic Battle of Isandlwana in 1879 where the Zulu army defeated the British troops. He was formally appointed on Tuesday morning, which was announced by the Zulu Traditional Prime Minister, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
In a statement by the Prime Minister, he described this appointment as strategic as it forms part of His Majesty’s ongoing efforts to strengthen, modernise, and reposition the Zulu Kingdom for growth, stability, and long-term development.
He stated that Prince Zulu joins the royal administration with a distinguished record of service and a wealth of experience and insight into the role and will be key in the promotion of interests of the kingdom.
“The Office of the Traditional Prime Minister congratulates Prince Africa Zulu on his appointment and wishes him strength and success as he undertakes this important responsibility in service of His Majesty and the Zulu Nation. Prince Zulu will serve as the deputy to the royal chancellor, Iso leSilo Malusi Zondi, ensuring seamless support to the Office of the Royal Chancellor and the broader governance structures of the Kingdom," read the statement.
King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has brought Prince Africa back to the royal kraal.
Image: Supplied
Zulu joins the leadership collective that constitutes the Prime Minister’s Executive Council, the highest decision-making body in the Zulu kingdom. The Council is chaired by the Traditional Reverend Buthelezi and comprises:
This council plays a central role in supporting His Majesty’s governance priorities, cultural preservation agenda, community development programmes, and national engagements.
In his acceptance speech, Zulu said that he was deeply honoured by the confidence His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini had placed in him through this appointment.
“I accept the responsibility with humility and a firm commitment to serve the Zulu Kingdom with integrity, discipline, and dedication. My role will be to support the Royal Chancellor and contribute to strengthening the governance and unity of the Kingdom as we advance the vision of His Majesty for stability, development, and progress.” said Zulu.
His return marks the third stint in the senior role in the royal family. He was a spokesperson for the king after ascending to throne in 2021 and was removed following a bitter fallout with the late Traditional Prime Minister Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi. He was reappointed to the same position in 2023 only to be removed again in 2024.
willem.phungula@inl.co.za