Political organization of the Ndebele State

Ndebele King Lobengula.

• The Ndebele State was a centralized and militarized state

• This means that all the political, military, administration, judiciary and religious were in the hands of the king

• The king was responsible for the selection of indunas and chiefs and these reported on activites in their areas

• The kings wives were stationed in regimental towns as spies

• The Ndebele king distributed captives

• The Ndebele state settlements were located close to the king’s palace, i.e about 80 km radius.

• All national ceremonies were presided over by the king, for example, the Inxwala

• The king was assisted by two councils in ruling and administration of the state.

• The highest and first decision making council was the Mphakati and this comprised of the Zansi group members

• The second one with members chosen by merit was called the Izikulu. It had elders recognized for their wisdom on the Ndebele tradition and customs

• These two groups checked on the king’s political powers to ensure that he did not have absolute powers

• The Izikulu deliberated and communicated their views with the Mphakati

• The state was divided into regimental towns which include the Amanyama,
  Amakanda, Amahlope and the Izigaba.

• Each  town had a settlement of soldiers, civilians and leader called Induna usually from the Zansi class

• The chiefs and indunas distributed cattle at a limited level

• Chiefs and indunas took turns to travel to the royal court to be on the king’s advisory council

• Tribute was paid to the king to show loyalty and allegiance

• Failure to pay tribute was seen as rebellion and was punished by regular raids

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