King MisuZulu kaZwelithini strongly condemned the rising levels of crime, particularly involving guns and gender-based violence.
Speaking to thousands gathered for the vibrant Umkhosi weLembe celebration at Stanger High School on Tuesday, the king voiced his concerns about the situation and urged people not to be afraid to report criminals.
“You know who these criminals are and I know you might be scared, but today I want to say, do not be scared,” he said. “Where are these guns coming from, especially here in KZN?”
On the issue of gender-based violence, the king said it brought shame to the nation and this had to come to an end.
He added the Zulu nation should take pride in the respect they have earned from other nations across Africa, and had to maintain that respect.
He emphasised the significance of the day, saying it was crucial for the nation to reflect on its identity and future direction.
Umkhosi weLembe is an annual tribute to King Shaka, the founder of the Zulu nation. September 24 was previously known as King Shaka Day, and when it was left off the list of public holidays in 1995 there was an outcry. The day was restored as a public holiday and renamed Heritage Day to include all South Africans.
King MisuZulu, who took over the throne three years ago when his father, King Zwelithini died, concluded by announcing the upcoming unveiling of the King Shaka statue at King Shaka International Airport, with the date still to be confirmed.
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