The rise of the Zulu nation under the leadership of Shaka Zulu in the early nineteenth century disrupted many traditional alliances in Southern Africa. This era of heightened military conflict led to the ‘great scattering’ (Mfecane), as various clans migrated out of South Africa and into neighbouring countries.
The Ngoni kingdoms established in Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Zambia were created by two chiefs, Inkosi Zwangendaba and Inkosi Mputa Maseko who came up from the south, conquering and forcibly incorporating the communities they encountered on their journey northwards.
This is one of the Ngoma traditional dance songs by the Maseko Ngoni, recorded in the Ntcheu District of Malawi. Originally a war dance, Ngoma was performed in preparation for battle and to celebrate victory. In more peaceful times it became a dance to celebrate the installation of a new Chief or a successful hunt. In Malawi today it is mostly performed at wedding ceremonies, festivals and at funerals.
These are two the same two people
The same two…
