Our Roots
Steeped in a rich heritage, the Amahlubi Kingdom has its routes firmly grounded as early as the 1300’s. Tradition asserts that the dynastic line of Langelibalele originated from King Chibi [1300 – 1325].
A proud and powerful clan, our history is coloured with a rich legacy of Traditional Leaders, Chiefs and Kings. King Bhungane II ruled until very early 1800, laying the foundations of a strong and reliable Chiefdom; the heart and soul of the Hlubi Nation.
After his death, his son, Mthimkhulu II, assumed power and ruled from his homestead near Utrecht from 1800 to 1818. Mthimkhulu had fifteen son's and one daughter. The eldest son was Mahele, while designated chief son was Dlomo known as Langalibalele. Other sons not so far mentioned were Gilikidi, Jijila, Ludidi, Mananga, Ncangwe, Mhlambiso, Mndebele, Ntambama and Phakathwayo, while the daughter was known as Sijama or Khwamide.
The 19th Century saw turbulent times in our Country, faced with continuing rivalry between traditional leaders and from international fronts by the British Empire, the Hlubi Nation remained challenged by these wars.
History reads that further pressures on the prosperity of our people led them to in time move away from our homeland and settle far and wide across South Africa and its neigbouring countries, returning only once a year for the traditional “Umkhosi Wokweshwama” Festival, the ceremony of tasting the fruits. Up until today, the head of our Hlubi Nation still holds this ceremony.
A celebration also practised by King Bhungane, and continued by King Mthimkhulu II and his son, King Langalibalele I. King Langalibalele I during the later years of the 1800’s faced further assault from the then Colony of Natal government, ultimately resulting in his banishment from Natal for life, only returning in 1887, where he passed away two years later.
Hlubi Monarch
King Mthimkhulu II - 1787
Gilikidi - 1821
Ngovolo - 1865
Sgidla - 1902
Mbingani - 1934
King Bonginkosi Brayce Mthimkhulu III - 1963
Our Future
Today, we are proud to introduce King Mthimkhulu III, the Paramount King of the Royal Amahlubi Kingdom.
Enthroned by his people, The Kingdom has all the promise of reigniting and furthering the legacy so richly merited from eras gone by.
The Kingdoms uniqueness is expressed as a place that has a special bond with, and strong legacy within the community. This is best defined as our purpose to seek and fulfil meaningful relationships with our people, our stakeholders and Country at large, all of whom value this sense of ownership and belonging.
The Kingdom strives to position itself, under the leadership of King Mthimkhulu III, as a reliable, trustworthy and humble nation.
Our Values
The values that we hold deeply and the ones that guide all our decisions and actions remain those as set in time;
We:
- Esteem honest and authentic relationships and partnerships
- Remain loyal and dependable and trustworthy
- Celebrate and support the life of our communities
- Embrace and respect our place within Africa, particularly South Africa, abroad and more specifically; locally within our community; the heart and soul of the Amahlubi Nation.
AmaHlubi Coat of Arms
The AmaHlubi Kingdom's Coat of Arms symbolises our rich legacy. The Kings’ Crown is representative of foundations in our Kingdoms leadership set as early as 1 300; a strong, reliable and trustworthy Chiefdom. History speaks of our Kings being esteemed by numerous Chiefs and Traditional Leaders over the Centuries, this is reflected in the Lions Head which visually translates the affectionate term for our King, Isilo ~ ruler of the Lion Kingdom.
The leopards adorning the shield are symbolic of past trials of our nation, resilient warriors renowned for not only being valiant, but wise and resourceful too.
The vibrant palette of gold, rich blue and deep maroon, reflect our Nations values of pride, generosity, truth and loyalty.
Our Roots. Our Future.
Our Promise
In respecting the place we hold within our Community; our purpose is to offer a sense of belonging; a place, a being, that seamlessly merges into our stakeholders and community’s lives; both physically and emotionally. The heart and soul of our people.
Our Roots. Our Future.