Today, we celebrate South Africa’s vibrant diversity. Did you know South Africa has 12 official languages and many ethnic groups, including Zulu, Xhosa, Tswana, Pedi, and Tsonga? Here on the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape, our community proudly carries forward a rich Xhosa cultural heritage.
The Eastern Cape is home to the largest population of amaXhosa people, a proud ethnic group made up of subgroups, including the amaBhaca, amaMpondo, amaXesibe, amaRharhabe, and amaGcaleka. Our community is part of the amaBomvana, known as “the Red People”. The name refers to our tradition of using red ochre to cover our skin, symbolising beauty and spiritual connection—translated as amaqaba mbola, meaning “those who smear ochre.”
The amaBomvana people are deeply connected to the land, with a long history of cattle herding, agriculture, and community-centered living. Strong values of respect, hospitality, and cultural preservation have been passed down through generations and remain a central part of daily life in our community.
Our community lies in the Xhorha Mouth Administrative Area, consisting of four villages—Folokhwe, KwaTshezi, Nqileni, and Mgojweni—under the leadership of a traditional Chief. Despite the challenges of rural life, our remoteness has preserved our rich culture. The way people live today is not vastly different from how we lived 100 years ago—something unique that we celebrate with pride.
Happy Heritage Day to all! May we all celebrate one another’s similarities and differences in our Rainbow Nation.
Want to learn more about the AmaXhosa culture? We recommend Don’t Upset ooMalume! A Guid To Stepping Up Your Xhosa Game by our Bulungula ambassador, Hombakazi Mercy Nqandeka.
