By Sihle Mavuso
Prince Africa Zulu, the flamboyant former spokesperson for King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, has returned to one of the most strategic positions in the Zulu kingdom after being appointed deputy royal chancellor nearly two years after his dismissal as spokesperson.
The appointment of Prince Africa, of the Onkweni Royal House in northern KwaZulu-Natal, was announced on Tuesday by the traditional prime minister of the monarch and the nation, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
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Prince Africa was removed as spokesperson in February 2024, with the king’s dismissal letter instructing him to stop speaking on behalf of the monarch, the royal family and the office.
Prince Africa later said he believed he had been pushed out for challenging what he described as a lack of transparency and attempts to exploit the monarchy and the Ingonyama Trust for financial gain.
Prince Africa will serve as deputy to Inkosi Malusi Zondi, who was appointed royal chancellor by Misuzulu in November last year.
Buthelezi said the appointment formed part of efforts to strengthen the structures of the Zulu kingdom under the traditional leadership of Misuzulu.
“This strategic appointment forms part of His Majesty’s ongoing efforts to strengthen, modernise, and reposition the Zulu Kingdom for growth, stability, and long-term development,” Buthelezi said.
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“Prince Africa Zulu joins the Royal Administration with a distinguished record of service and a wealth of experience and insight into the role and will be key in the promotion of interests of the Kingdom.
“Prince Africa Zulu will serve as the deputy to the Royal Chancellor, Iso leSilo Malusi Zondi, ensuring seamless support to the Office of the Royal Chancellor and the broader governance structures of the Kingdom,” Buthelezi said.
He said Prince Africa was joining a formidable leadership collective that makes up the Prime Minister’s Executive Council, the highest decision-making body in the Zulu Kingdom under the authority of the king.
“The Council is chaired by the Traditional Prime Minister, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, and comprises: Deputy Traditional Prime Minister: Inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza, Royal Chancellor: Iso leSilo Malusi Zondi, Deputy Royal Chancellor: Prince Africa Zulu, His Majesty’s Spokesperson: Prince Thulani Zulu and His Majesty’s Representative in the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders: Prince Nathi Zulu.
“This Council plays a central role in supporting His Majesty’s governance priorities, cultural preservation agenda, community development programmes, and national engagements. The appointment of Prince Africa Zulu signifies His Majesty’s commitment to building a capable, disciplined, and visionary administration that serves the Zulu Nation with excellence and integrity.
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“The Office of the Traditional Prime Minister congratulates Prince Africa Zulu on his appointment and wishes him strength and success as he undertakes this important responsibility in service of His Majesty and the Zulu Nation.”
Prince Africa said he was humbled by the appointment.
“I wish to express my sincere gratitude to His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini for the confidence he has placed in me through this appointment. I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty to serve His Majesty and the Zulu Nation.
“I look forward to supporting the Royal Chancellor and working with the leadership of the Kingdom to strengthen governance, preserve our cultural heritage, and advance development that benefits our communities,” he said.
