Zulus mourn their monarch - 24th March 2021

Crowds of Zulus in South Africa have congregated outside the gates of the royal palace in an act of remembrance for their late king Goodwill Zwelithini.

The public tributes to Zwelithini were held almost a week after the monarch lost his battle with a diabetes related illness, which, according to some reports, was complicated due to a Covid-19 infection.

Zwelithini had the longest reign of any monarch in Zulu history, serving his people for over half a century.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a bilingual eulogy in both English and Zulu at Zwelithini's memorial.

Cyril Ramaphosa: "It is a difficult day because a huge tree has fallen. [speaks in Zulu] Our nation is indeed in mourning."

The Zulu king's role is purely ceremonial with no executive power, but many of the country's 11 million Zulus followed Zwelithini's guidance on cultural matters. The monarch's reign was dedicated to restoring Zulu traditions, a move criticised by some but welcomed by others.

Gugulethu Chonco: "It is important to me 'cause that is where I found my, my identity as a Zulu woman. This is where I've learned about my culture, it's where I also tackled my own personal issues about, like, such as body image issues, low self-esteem. This is where I conquered all that 'cause when you're here nobody cares about your body size or body shape."

The order of succession is currently unclear, as the king's eldest son by his most senior wife was murdered last November. The next heir will be announced sometime in the next two years, following a series of rituals performed by the royal family and their advisors.

At the memorial ceremony, President Ramaphosa assured Zulus that the nation of South Africa stands with them in their mourning.

Cyril Ramaphosa: "On behalf of the people of South Africa, I express my deepest condolences to the royal family and to the Zulu nation on this profound loss."