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The Conversation
The Conversation
Politics
Jill E. Kelly, Associate Professor of History, Southern Methodist University

Zulu monarchy: how royal women have asserted their agency and power throughout history

Goodwill Zwelithini Misuzulu KaZwelithini Nandi South Africa Africa Fulbright
EPA-EFE/Phill Magakoe/AFP Pool

The passing away of South Africa’s Zulu king Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu in March 2021 refocused attention on the role of royal women in Zulu leadership. After the official mourning period, and to the surprise of many observers, the late king’s will appointed his senior wife Queen Mantfombi Dlamini Zulu to hold the throne for his successor.

Queen Mantfombi died six weeks later. Her will named her son Misuzulu kaZwelithini as the heir.

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