You know how some people are tough on the outside but really sweet on the inside? They act all serious, but once you get to know them, they are the kindest people ever.
That is the perfect description of the Shongwe clan.
If you live in Eswatini (Swaziland) or Mpumalanga, you know the Shongwes. They are everywhere. They are a massive, powerful family with deep roots in royalty. But their clan names tell a story that is a little different from the usual “war and spears” stuff.
Their story is about nature, sweetness, and being the “Right Hand” of the nation.
Today, we are going to unpack the Shongwe clan names (Izithakazelo or Sinanatelo). We are going to find out why they are named after a tasty plant and why they are practically brothers with the Kunene clan.
So, get comfortable. Let’s talk about the Sweet Stem.
The Shongwe Cheat Sheet (The Praises)
If you want to show respect to a Shongwe, you need to know the passwords. These are the names that make them stand taller. Here is the list:
Shongwe!
Mtimandze!
Mabhengu!
Kunene!
Lubhoko!
Ntfulini!
Wena weMtimandze, mtim’ onmnandzi, mhlanga lumnandzi! (You of the Sweet Stem, the tasty stalk/reed)
Wena lowabhenguza umlilo! (You who flared up the fire)
Did you see that line about the “tasty stalk”? That is the secret sauce of the Shongwe name. Let’s bite into it.
“Mtimandze”: The Sweet Stem
This is the most famous praise name for Shongwe: Mtimandze.
Let’s break it down:
Mti = Tree / Stem / Wood
Mandze = Sweet / Nice / Tasty
So, literally, it means “The Sweet Stem” or “The Pleasant Tree.”
The praise goes: “Mtimandze, mtim’ onmnandzi, mhlanga lumnandzi.” (The stem that is sweet, the reed that is sweet).
Now, this doesn’t mean they are made of candy. It’s a metaphor.
- Personality: It implies that Shongwe people are pleasant to be around. They have “sweet” personalities. They are diplomats. They are the people you want at your dinner table because they bring good vibes.
- Value: Just like sugar cane or sweet reeds were a treat in the old days, the Shongwe people are considered a valuable treat to the nation.
It’s a really beautiful name. It’s not about killing enemies; it’s about bringing joy.
“Mabhengu” and the Fire
But wait—don’t think they are soft just because they are sweet.
They also have the name Mabhengu.
This comes from the verb Ukubhenguza, which means “To flare up” (usually referring to a fire or wind fanning a flame).
The praise says: “Wena lowabhenguza umlilo.” (You who flared up the fire).
This changes the picture, doesn’t it? It suggests that while they are sweet, they have a fiery side. If you provoke them, they can flare up like a bushfire in the wind. They have energy. They have passion.
So, a Shongwe is a mix: Sweet like sugar, but hot like fire if you mess with them.
The Kunene Connection (The Right Hand)
This is a big source of confusion for people.
“Are Shongwe and Kunene the same thing?”
Yes, they are brothers.
In the history of the Swazi/Nguni people, the Shongwe and Kunene clans split from the same ancestor. In fact, Kunene means “Right” (as in the Right Hand).
In traditional courts, the Shongwe/Kunene people often sat at the Right Hand of the King. This was the position of the main advisor or the defense.
So, if you are a Shongwe, you are technically a Kunene too. You are part of the “Right Hand” family. That is why you are often seen as leaders and advisors—the people the King trusts.
“Lubhoko”: The Staff
You will also hear the name Lubhoko.
Lubhoko usually refers to a long staff or walking stick.
In African culture, a staff isn’t just a piece of wood. It is a symbol of authority and support. Elders lean on it. Chiefs hold it when they speak.
Being called Lubhoko implies that the Shongwe clan is a pillar of support. They are the stick that the nation leans on. Without them, things might fall over.
How to Praise a Shongwe
So, how do you use these sweet and spicy names in real life?
1. The “Sweet” Compliment
If a Shongwe friend does something nice for you, say:
“Ngiyabonga, Mtimandze! Always sweet like the reed.”
It’s a charming way to thank them.
2. The “Action” Hype
If they are getting ready for a big game or a presentation, say:
“Come on, Mabhengu! Flare up the fire!”
It encourages them to bring their energy.
3. The Royal Greeting
If you want to be super respectful:
“Sawubona, Kunene. Sawubona, Shongwe.”
It acknowledges their high status as the Right Hand.
The Final Word
The Shongwe name is all about balance.
You have the sweetness of the stem (Mtimandze).
You have the heat of the fire (Mabhengu).
You have the support of the staff (Lubhoko).
It’s the perfect combination. Be kind enough to be loved, but fiery enough to be respected.
So, to all the Shongwes out there: Stay sweet, but keep that fire burning.
Mtimandze! Mabhengu!