Mpande's - University of Zululand Institutional Repository

-79-
CHAPTER THREE
MPANDE'S MILITARY EXPEDITIONS
Mpande ruled at a time when the development of new institutions of new
institutions of domination, notably the amabutho, facilitated the
emergence of a form of centralised authority and gave to chiefs a new
coercive capacity. Unlike his progenitors, Mpande waged few wars
abroad. The style of his military expeditions, however, resembled that of
his predecessors. After his campaigns a re-vitalization of the Shakan
amabutho control system took place. New amakhanda were built and
occupied by the amabutho, including a harem around his isigodlo (palace)
at Nodwengu.'
Mpande's system of regiments was a key aspect of state formation in
south-east Africa. The dominance of the Zulu ruling group was closely
associated with its control over the amabutho. Military units of Shaka,
Dingane and Mpande were initially based at Esiklebheni or at Nobamba
lE. Wright and D.R. Edgecombe: "Mpande ka Senzangakhona - 1798 - 1872". cr
C.c. Saunders: Black leaders in Soutbern African History, pp. 52 - 54.