You know how some people have memories like elephants? They remember every birthday, every promise, and every detail of a story from ten years ago.
That is the Manqele spirit.
If you have a Manqele friend, you might notice that they are sharp. They pay attention. They are often the ones who keep the group grounded because they know exactly where everyone came from.
The Manqele clan is deeply rooted in Zulu history. They are famous for being eloquent, for being close to royalty, and for sharing a very strong bond with the Phakathi and Mthiyane families. In fact, their history is so intertwined that sometimes it feels like one big family reunion.
Today, we are going to explore the Manqele clan names (Izithakazelo). We are going to find out why they are called “The Reminders” (Skhumbuza) and why they are always found “Inside” (Phakathi).
So, listen closely. We are about to remember the past.
The Manqele Cheat Sheet (The Praises)
If you want to greet a Manqele with respect, you need to use the names that wake up their ancestors. It’s not enough to just say “Sawubona.” You need the deep titles. Here is the list:
Manqele!
Skhumbuza!
Ndaba!
Phakathi!
Mthiyane!
Khwintsi!
Mphikwa!
Wena kaSkhumbuza! (You of The Reminder)
Wena owalala ebuhlanjeni benkomo! (You who slept in the cow’s stomach contents)
Wait, did we see that cow line before? If you read the Phakathi article, you definitely did. That is because these families are blood brothers. Let’s break it down.
“Skhumbuza”: The One Who Reminds
This is the most distinct praise for the Manqele clan: Skhumbuza.
Let’s look at the word:
Ukukhumbula = To remember
Ukukhumbuza = To remind
So, Skhumbuza means “The Reminder.”
Why is this cool? Because in oral history, “reminding” people was a powerful job. It meant you were the keeper of the truth. You were the one who reminded the King of his duties. You were the one who reminded the people of their laws.
It implies that the Manqele ancestors were wise advisors. They weren’t just followers; they were the conscience of the nation. They made sure no one forgot what mattered.
The Phakathi and Mthiyane Connection
This is the big family secret (that isn’t really a secret).
Manqele, Phakathi, and Mthiyane are often considered the same stock.
You will hear Manqele people being greeted as “Phakathi” (The Inside Ones) or “Mthiyane” (The Trappers).
This is why they share the famous praise:
“Wena owalala ebuhlanjeni benkomo.”
As we learned before, this translates to “You who slept in the cow’s stomach contents.” It’s a badge of honor for survival. It means the ancestors were willing to hide in the messiest, most uncomfortable places to survive the wars and protect their lineage.
So, if you are a Manqele, you are also a survivor. You do what needs to be done.
The Royal “Ndaba”
You will also hear Ndaba.
This links the Manqele clan to the royal courts.
Indaba means a “matter” or “story.” Ancestors named Ndaba were usually people of high status—people who were worth talking about.
It suggests that the Manqele clan was never far from the center of power. They were involved in the “Indabas” (the big meetings) where the future of the nation was decided.
“Khwintsi”: The Sharp One
Then there is Khwintsi.
This is a sharp, snappy name. It often refers to something small but potent, or an action of jerking/pulling tight.
In names, it implies a person who is quick-witted or reactive. It balances out the serious “Reminder” (Skhumbuza) energy. It shows that the Manqele people can also be quick and agile when they need to be.
How to Praise a Manqele
So, how do you make a Manqele smile? Here is the guide.
1. The “Memory” Compliment
If a Manqele friend remembers your birthday or brings up a detail everyone else forgot, say:
“Yebo, Skhumbuza! You really are the Reminder!”
It’s a perfect way to acknowledge their sharp mind.
2. The Family Greeting
If you meet them, shake their hand and say:
“Sawubona, Phakathi. Sawubona, Manqele.”
Acknowledging the Phakathi link shows you know their deep history.
3. The “Survivor” Respect
If they are working through a tough situation:
“You are a survivor, Ndaba. You have handled worse than this.”
It connects them to the strength of their ancestors.
The Final Word
The Manqele name is about knowledge and resilience.
You are Skhumbuza (The Keeper of Memories).
You are Phakathi (The Insider).
You are the Survivor who isn’t afraid of the mess.
So, to all the Manqeles out there: Keep reminding us of who we are. We need your memory.
Skhumbuza! Manqele!