On 13 September 2025, the AmaMpondo gathered at the Matshona Royal Sports Ground in the Eastern Cape for this year’s Culture and Heritage Festival. The air was filled with song, drumbeats, and joyful voices, and the occasion was more than a celebration, it showed how and why their traditions, language, and identity continue to endure despite generations of hardship.
Their Story
The AmaMpondo, known for their rich cultural practices and deep connection to their land, have long carried traditions that are central to their identity. From oral storytelling and music to distinctive dress and rituals, their heritage remains a vibrant thread in the broader South African tapestry.
Yet, colonialism and apartheid tried to erase these roots. the community stands firm, affirming that their culture is not only alive but thriving, carried forward with pride by young and old.
The Event/Occasion
This year’s festival was defined by colour, song, and unity. The Provincial Secretary and MPL, Commissar Madikizela, honoured the invitation and stood alongside the AmaMpondo in celebration.
In his address, he saluted the community for keeping their culture alive:
“True liberation must include the defence of our culture and heritage,” he said, affirming that protecting indigenous traditions is as important as political freedom.
The event blended cultural performances, traditional attire, and heartfelt speeches, turning the sports ground into a stage of heritage and pride.
Community Reactions
For many attendees, the festival was more than entertainment, it was a reaffirmation of belonging. Families expressed pride in passing traditions to their children, while elders spoke of joy at seeing their heritage honoured publicly.
Community members echoed the sentiment that preserving language, customs, and rituals is central to building a strong, liberated future. The festival left many hopeful that the AmaMpondo identity will continue to inspire generations to come.
