Durban - KWANONGOMA came to a standstill on Wednesday when King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu’s body was brought home to the KwaKhethomthandayo Royal Palace.
Albert Mncwango, the mayor of the Nongoma Local Municipality, said the temporary standstill meant taxis did not operate and shops could not trade during the late monarch’s march home.
Businesses were asked to close on Wednesday to ease traffic congestion and allow for the smooth transportation of the King’s body from a mortuary to his palace.
Businesses obliged with some opting not to open at all, in honour of the King.
Local businessman Siyabonga Twala felt it was fair to temporarily close his business, saying the procession was far more important than making a profit.
"We are paying respect to the King. We can't be worried about making money when we have lost an important figure in the nation," said Twala.
Historian and author Khaya Ndwandwe praised the local businesses saying they showed the utmost respect to the Monarch.
"We must commend the businesses operating in the area for the high discipline they displayed. They showed complete appreciation for our traditions," said Ndwandwe.
Despite all measures being taken in line with the Covid-19 regulations, hundreds of mourners descended on KwaKhethomthandayo.
Hundreds of Zulu maidens, amabutho (Zulu warriors) and all the King’s subjects filled the streets, bidding farewell to the King of the Zulu nation.
Men and women sang and danced traditional Zulu songs.
Some of the king's subjects walked more than 10km with a large entourage of state and royal vehicles accompanying the king's body to his palace for the private funeral at midnight.
"This rain is a symbol that a true king is planted. It happens with each African king as a sign that our king is welcomed by the ancestors," said Ndwandwe.
Various amabutho tribes braved the rain and queues to showcase their traditional dance routines.
Minister of Police Bheki Cele was on the ground and kept a close eye on the activities at the royal palace.
A memorial service was expected to be held today and would be co-ordinated by both the Royal family and the government.
President Cyril Ramaphosa had ordered flags around the country to be flown at half mast in honour of the late king.
The service on Wednesday evening would only be attended by at least 100 people inside the Royal Palace where Ramaphosa was expected to be in attendance.
At least 200 mourners would be accommodated in venues installed outside the palace gates, with big screens erected for them to watch.
The king was born on July 27, 1948 and bowed on March 12, 2021 after complications related to diabetes. He was the longest-serving Zulu monarch, with a reign that spanned over five decades.
Daily News