Mpande's - University of Zululand Institutional Repository

amakhanda (establishment erected and occupied by the amabutho,
containing in addition a harem) around his palace of Nodwengu. In the
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late 1840's the success ofMpande's military campaigns was restricted by
sporadic interference by both the Voortrekkers and the British ofNatal.
Relations between Mpande and the Voortrekkers of the Republic of
Natalia began on 15 January 1839 when Mpande met the Voortrekker
leaders on the banks of Thukela River. The head of the Volksraad,
Andries Pretorius engaged in cordial conversation with Mpande.
Pretorius realised that declaring Voortrekker friendship with Mpande
would ensure their security against possible invasion from the north of
Thukela. Such declaration laid the foundation for the battle ofMaqongqo
hills, which took place on 29 January 1840. In that war, the regiments of
Dingane were defeated by those ofMpande.
After a protracted battle at Maqongqo, (29 January 1840) Andries
Pretorius and some members of the Volksraad arranged a meeting with
Mpande. They met Mpande on 10 February 1840 and installed him as
king. This happened after the Zulu nation had already crowned him king
on 5 February 1840. He was persuaded to take an oath before the
Volksraad, acknowledging the supremacy of the Volksraad, undertaking
to rule KwaZulu in peace and maintaining cordial relations with the