KwaZulu-Natal woke up to the news that Henrietta KaSolomon KaDinizulu kaCetshwayo kaMpande Khuzwayo had passed away at the age of 102 on Tuesday night.
Reverend Mthobisi Sibanda, the Ulundi acting minister of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA), stated that she was the last remaining daughter of King KaSolomon of the Zulu Nation. She is also the great-grandmother to the current King Misuzulu kaZwelithini.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Princess Henrietta Khuzwayo Kasolomon. She was a beloved figure, known for her grace, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her community. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, Ulundi Circuit, and the Zulu nation during this difficult time,” he said.
Sibanda said that they had a communion service for her on Tuesday, and their hearts were at peace.
Nontembeko Boyce, the speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, has expressed deep sadness at the passing of Khuzwayo. Boyce stated that her passing marks the end of a royal generation closely intertwined with the legacy and future of the Zulu Nation.
“On behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Royal Household, the Zulu Nation, and in particular to His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, to whom Princess Henrietta was a great-grandmother.
“Princess Henrietta’s long life was one of quiet dignity and service, a bridge between generations. She carried the hopes and traditions of our people with grace and strength. Her wisdom and presence will be deeply missed, not only within the royal family but throughout the province and the nation at large,” said Boyce.
Boyce added that Khuzwayo was one of the last remaining royal elders, alongside Prince Philemon kaFihlinqindi and Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi of KwaPhindangene. Boyce said that her 100th birthday was a proud moment for the family and the Zulu Nation, a reminder of the deep familial and cultural bonds she upheld to the very end.
“As we bid farewell to a noble daughter of the soil, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy of humility, strength, and cultural pride will continue to live in the hearts of all who were touched by her life,” she said.
According to research, Solomon kaDinuzulu (1891-1933) was the king of the Zulu nation from 1913 until his death on 4 March 1933. He was born on the island of St. Helena during the exile there of his father, king Dinuzulu kaCetshwayo.
