Mpande's - University of Zululand Institutional Repository

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Zulu chiefdom and evinced aversion to matrimonial bonds, preferring to
remain queens." Mkabayi headed the ebaQulusini (where they push out
buttocks); Mmama ruled the Osebeni (on the river bank) homestead,
while Mawa reigned over king Shaka's eNtonteleni military homestead. 2J
lama's military valour was best demonstrated by his offensives against the
Kwafakazi clan ofMhlabangubo near the present day Vryheid." While he
is said to have refrained from publicising his prowess to his country's
aggrandisement, lama's praises indicate that he was by repute a valorous
wamor:
"lama is not deceived to the slightest extent,
Even on the point oJa spear he can be at ease,
Even on branches he can hold tight.
He who was solid like a rock oJZihlalo,
Which could be commanded by those who carry
barbed spears. ''25
lama presented his half-brother, Mhlaba, with a bride he had already
impregnated. This led to the birth of Sojiyisa (he who thickens).26
2J
25
'6
Ibid., p. 40.
Ibid., p. 41.
Ibid., p. 44.
T Cope: Izibongo - Zulu praise poems, p. 77.
e. Webb and J. Wright (Eds): James Swan Arclllves of recorded oral evidence relating
to the lllstory ofthe Zulu and neighbouring peoples, Vols. 3 - 4, pp. 163 - 164,210,
265.