Museum to be built at the historic Isandlwana site
Thousands descended today to the hills of Isandlwana to commemorate the historic battle of Isandlwana where British soldiers suffered a humiliating defeat by Zulu warriors on 22 January 1879.
The Zulus were equipped mainly with the traditional assegai iron spears and cow-hide shields, against the British who were armed with modern weapons. Isilo emphasized the importance to remembering and commemorating our history, especially battles such as Isandlwana, which marked a turning point in the history of this country.
MEC for Economic Development and Tourism Mr Mike Mabuyakhulu praised the King’s bold step to revive and preserve heritage. “As government, we have started with plans now to build a state of the art heritage museum here in Isandlwana, which will be a major tourist attraction,” said Mabuyakhulu.
He said this facility will be inherited by future generations as part of their heritage. The commemoration attracts an enthusiastic group of amabutho (warriors) who enacts the battle of Isandlwana during the annual commemoration events together with the Dundee Die Hards representing the British.
They perform a spectacular enactment of the battle in authentic Zulu regalia, Victorian British military uniforms and weapons. The group’s convener Garry Slater said the preservation of history is very important to the group, adding they have plans of expanding their acts to include other historic battles like the Anglo-Boer war.
Enquiries:
Ndabezinhle Sibiya: Spokesperson for the Premier
Cell: 082 375 4742
Regi Khumalo: Media Liaison Desk for the Premier
Cell: 079 751 6108
