Dumazulu Cultural Village in rural KZN preserves culture, sustains lives of families

In a remote but picturesque area of Hluhluwe, northern KwaZulu-Natal, lies Dumazulu Cultural Village – a place where time slows down and tradition lives on.

Established in 1994, the village nestled among trees in a valley, is more than just a collection of huts, it is a living community with 16 traditional homesteads. It is the home to 14 families who carry forward customs, stories, and the way of life of their ancestors.

Walking through Dumazulu feels like stepping into the past, where every structure has meaning and every custom has purpose. The village was designed with care, not just for beauty, but for survival and respect.

Two wooden gates manage the flow of life, an entrance and an exit, controlling movement and ensuring safety from wild animals.

Among the many craftsmen there is Sihle Thwala, who ensures the longevity of one of the most iconic symbols of the Zulu heritage – the shields and spears. His craft is a direct link to the days of King Shaka Zulu, when the weapons were not just tools of war but symbols of strength and identity.

“In Shaka Zulu’s time, every warrior had to be ready. This is what they used to protect themselves in battle. The short spear was for close fighting, and the big shield was to cover the body when you moved forward.”

“We don’t fight wars anymore but sometimes, wild animals wander close. You have to protect yourself, your family, your cattle. These shields and spears are still important in our lives,” said Thwala.

Just a few metres away sits talented beadwork artist, Nombuso Mkhize, who has been creating cultural jewellery since she was just nine.