King Misuzulu Appoints Inkosi Malusi Zondi as New Royal Chancellor

In a significant move for the Zulu kingdom, King Misuzulu KaZwelithini has appointed Durban-based businessman Inkosi Malusi Zondi as the new royal chancellor. The announcement, made during a traditional ceremony over the weekend, highlights Zondi’s growing role in fostering diplomatic ties and economic growth. This elevation comes just weeks after Zondi was installed as the king of the Bhambatha clan, marking a rapid rise in his leadership within Zulu structures. As South Africa continues to celebrate its rich cultural heritage, this appointment underscores the king’s focus on building stronger relations both locally and internationally.

The new chancellor has already hit the ground running, addressing community disputes and promoting unity. With responsibilities that extend to global engagements, Zondi’s position is set to play a key part in advancing the kingdom’s interests amid ongoing efforts to preserve and modernise traditional governance.

Announcement at Traditional Coronation Ceremony

King Misuzulu made the appointment public on Saturday, 22 November 2025, during the official coronation of Inkosi Mbuso Ngcobo of the Amanyuswa traditional council in Umzinto, located in the Ugu District Municipality on KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast. The event drew traditional leaders and community members, providing a fitting backdrop for the king’s decision.

Reflecting on Zondi’s capabilities, the king said: “You all know that in Zulu we push the most effective ox. I first named Zondi as an overseer. And I later decided that I would move him from that position and make him what in English is called a royal chancellor.”

He explained the role’s importance: “A chancellor is tasked with forging ties with other royal families all over the world. Because as a kingdom we need those relations, yet no one is carrying out that task. Zondi has since identified him as a suitable candidate. I now present your chancellor. And he is the person Amakhosi (Chiefs) would give tasks to.”

This marks a shift from Zondi’s previous position as the king’s representative, or ‘his eye’, in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, where he oversaw the interests of the king’s subjects in these urban centres. The king praised Zondi’s hard work and effectiveness, noting that the new role would better utilise his skills in diplomacy and community leadership.

Zondi’s Background and Recent Rise

Inkosi Malusi Zondi, a prominent figure in Durban’s business community, serves as the president of the Black Business Federation (BBF) and chairs the Malusi Zondi Foundation. His appointment as royal chancellor builds on his recent installation as the king of the Bhambatha clan on 4 November 2025, at the Mashobeni royal residence in Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal.

During that ceremony, King Misuzulu aimed to empower rural communities by giving them a stronger voice in local matters. The Bhambatha clan, historically significant, traces its roots to Inkosi Bhambatha kaManciza Zondi, a key leader in the 1906 poll tax rebellion against British colonial rule. Zondi’s descent from this lineage restores historical ties between the Zulu royal family and the Zondi clan, dating back over a century.

In his first address as Bhambatha clan king, Zondi emphasised self-reliance: “Traditional authority cannot be begging government and big business for the development of their people; they need to lead the rural development agenda.” He pledged unwavering support to the Zulu household and outlined goals for uniting communities, ensuring safer streets, and driving economic initiatives through dialogue and accountable governance. The event featured traditional customs, including the presentation of 120 live cattle.

Zondi’s business acumen and community involvement have positioned him as a bridge between traditional leadership and modern economic opportunities, making him an ideal fit for the chancellor’s duties.

Key Responsibilities of the Royal Chancellor

The role of royal chancellor carries substantial responsibilities, focusing on diplomacy and development. Zondi will work to forge business partnerships and economic initiatives that promote growth and community upliftment within the Zulu kingdom. He will represent the king and the kingdom in diplomatic engagements, both locally and internationally, to strengthen ties with other monarchies, governments, and global institutions.

Additionally, as a royal ambassador, Zondi will promote the kingdom’s interests, image, and cultural heritage on international platforms. This includes building relations with royal families worldwide, a task the king noted had been neglected. The position was previously held by businessman Mageza Mbambo, owner of the Mushroom Lounge in Umhlanga, though details on his departure remain unclear.
This appointment aligns with broader efforts to modernise the Zulu kingdom while preserving its traditions, ensuring it engages effectively with the global community for mutual benefits like trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.

First Assignment: Restoring Order in Umgababa

In his debut task as chancellor, Zondi visited Umgababa, south of Durban, on Sunday, 23 November 2025. The visit aimed to restore order in the Luthuli clan, where Inkosi Phathisizwe Luthuli has faced challenges from rogue community members. These individuals formed a trust and illegally sold prime land overlooking the Indian Ocean, pocketing the proceeds and undermining traditional authority.

At an imbizo called to address the illegal land sales, Zondi issued a stern warning: “I warned all those who are behind all the complaints that have been raised by Inkosi Luthuli. They need to stop doing what they are doing. Otherwise I will face them.”

He demanded that the rogue elements fully return control of the area to Luthuli or face consequences, emphasising the need to respect traditional leadership and halt unlawful activities that harm communities.

Addressing Disputes: Ngizwe Mchunu’s Apology

During the same imbizo, Zondi took the opportunity to mediate another conflict. He compelled Ngizwe Mchunu, the self-proclaimed leader of Amabhinca, to publicly apologise to Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA).

Mchunu had made damaging statements against Buthelezi, leading to a court case where he was ordered to retract and offer an unconditional apology. Zondi’s intervention ensured compliance, promoting reconciliation and respect among leaders to maintain stability within the kingdom.

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