Tsonga people of South Africa originate from Mozambique and the language is related to that of Zulu people. Tsonga people’s identity as separate people is due to the invasion in the 19th century by Zulu Chief Soshaghane. Who incorporated Tsonga people into his Gaza Kingdom. This is why Tsonga people are commonly known as Shangaan.
Traditionally, each Tsonga family had its own “village” inhabitated by extended families consisting of a group of nuclear families headed by the same man, with his wives, and their unmarried children.
Curio Music and Dance:
Tsonga people love music. Tsonga music has a distinctive beat….with a guitar being the main instrument that makes the music unique and different.
Tsonga music is intertwined with abiding Shangaan beliefs and customs.
The love for music has made –Tsonga people to develop a number of musical instruments including the 'fayi' - a small, stubby wooden flute that produces a breathless, raspy, but haunting sound, and is often played by young herd boys. The 'xitende', a long thin bow tied on each end by a taut leather thong or wire - which runs across a gourd. This was often used to alleviate boredom on long journeys.
Tsonga women dance the muchongolo, which celebrates the role of women in society. When dancing Tsonga women wear full ruffled skirts called “xibelani” and a bright print wrap around sashes.
Gazankulu Republic doesn’t just sell clothes. It sells an identity.
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