The AmaMpondo nation is preparing to host the 19th Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival from 13–14 September 2025 at the Lwandlolubomvu Great Place, Matshona Village, Ntabankulu in the Eastern Cape. The celebration will also include the 17th annual Mpondo Reed Dance (Inkciyo yamaMpondo), launched in 2008.
Here’s everything you need to know:
1. A milestone celebration of heritage
This year marks the 19th edition of the Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival, first launched in 2006. It has grown into the largest cultural event in the Mpondo Kingdom and the Eastern Cape, spotlighting Mpondo heritage, customs, and traditions.
2. Showcasing Mpondo culture and language
Expect to see vibrant regalia, traditional dances, music, arts and crafts exhibitions, and horse parades. A central focus is the promotion of isiMpondo language, which the community is campaigning to have recognised as one of South Africa’s official languages.
3. The 17th Mpondo Reed Dance (Inkciyo yamaMpondo)
Launched in 2008, the reed dance is in its 17th year. Beyond its cultural symbolism, it carries a powerful social message — this year focusing on creating awareness around gender-based violence (GBV), child abuse, and human trafficking.
4. Youth empowerment and cultural diplomacy
The festival is a hub for young people, encouraging them to take pride in their culture and participate in exchanges with diverse communities. These activities strengthen cultural diplomacy, showcasing unity in diversity while addressing modern challenges faced by youth.
5. Promoting rural development and the cultural economy
The event aims to position the Mpondo Kingdom as a tourism destination in the Eastern Cape. By attracting visitors, it helps stimulate local economic development, job creation, and rural growth.
6. Honouring Nkosi Ntsikayezwe Sigcau’s legacy
The festival was launched in memory of Nkosi Ntsikayezwe Sigcau (1947–1996), a respected ANC liberation activist and stalwart. As the Senior Traditional Leader of Lwandlolubomvu Traditional Council and son of the late King Botha Manzolwandle Sigcau, he made significant contributions to both the liberation struggle and rural development.
7. A celebration of unity and cultural pride
At its core, the festival promotes unity across diverse cultures, affirming the AmaMpondo nation’s pride in its rich history, customs, and distinct traditions. It remains a vibrant platform for cultural preservation and national dialogue.
📅 Dates: 13–14 September 2025
📍 Venue: Lwandlolubomvu Great Place, Matshona Village, Ntabankulu, Eastern Cape
📞 Enquiries:
- Princess Stella Sigcau II — Senior Member of the Royal Family: +27 66 230 3324
- Prince ZwelamaMpondo Sigcau — Public Relations: +27 60 670 0792
