Ntshingwayo Khoza

Ntshingwayo Khoza

Ntshingwayo kaMgodi (1809 - 1883) was the second in command (inDuna) of King Cetshwayo's Army. He is known as Ntshingwayo Khoza after being taken into foster care by Mahole of the Khoza.

He was the commanding general who led the Zulus against the Centre Column of the first British invasion of Zululand in the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. He outmanoeuvred Lt. Gen. Lord Chelmsford, diverting part of the British force, then defeating and annihilating the encamped British Army at the Battle of Isandlwana. Ntshingwayo is regarded as a Zulu superhero because he remained loyal to his people through thick and thin. He also is believed to be one of the oldest Zulu warriors, he died at the staggering age of 74 unable to surpass Sigananda kaSokufa's age of 91. On 21 July 1883, Zibhebhu launched a surprise attack on Cetshwayo's Ondini Homestead which was currently being renovated. Hundreds were slain due to no preparation. In the incident Cetshwayo was wounded and fled the scene, Sirayo Ngobese was trampled by a horse nd died. Ntshingwayo was pinned down and stabbed in the stomach by a warrior, Muziwento. Ntshingwayo uttered his last words while choking on his blood Sengifikile kwaguqa nyawo, ngayidlala indima yami, umfana kaMaphitha uyohlala eyigwala and died. Ntshingwayo was mourned by thousands, he was buried in an unmarked heap of rocks.