Samuel Edward Krune Loliwe Ngxekengxeke Mqhayi, Imbongi yesizwe jikelele (1 Dec 1875 - 29 July 1945)
S.E.K. Mqhayi was born in the village of Gqumahashe near Alice, in the Tyume valley on 1st December 1875.
Step into the world of South African literature and be enchanted by the captivating works of S.E.K. Mqhayi, a prominent figure in the world of Xhosa poetry. Born in 1875 in the village of Gqumahashe near Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa.
Samuel Edward Krune Mqhayi, emerged as one of the most revered poets during the early 20th century. With his exceptional storytelling abilities and mastery of the Xhosa language, he became an influential voice in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Xhosa people.
Samuel was the son of Ziwani and Qashani, daughter of Bedle. Two years after he was born his mother died. He started attending school at Evergreen, six miles from his home, where he was known as Samuel Krune, using his grandfather's name as his surname. One day, after a successful school celebration, a teacher awarded all the pupils new names; Samuel was given the name of Edward. He thus assumed the name of Samuel Krune Mqhayi, finally adopting his great-grandfather's name in his name.
He moved with his father, Ziwani, to Centane in 1885, the year of the witgatboom famine, or the year of the East Coast fever (umnyaka wenDlala yomPhunzisa, or umnyaka wesiTayi)
Among his numerous poetic gems, "A! Silimela" stands as a true testament to Mqhayi's literary prowess. This poem not only showcases his command over language and rhythm but also exemplifies his dedication to preserving the Xhosa oral tradition and history. Through his rich metaphors and vivid imagery, Mqhayi takes us on a journey through the cultural landscape of his people, celebrating their struggles, triumphs, and resilience.
He died in 1945 at his home on Ntabozuko, outside the little village of Berlin near East London. Two days later he was buried on the lonely slopes of Ntabozuko. On 26 March 1951, an august gathering that included J.A. Calata, A.W. Champion, D.D.T. Jabavu and A.B. Xuma assembled over his grave to unveil a memorial tombstone, which bears the following inscription:
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In a historic moment of cultural exchange and celebration, S.E.K. Mqhayi, the esteemed Xhosa poet, performed his poem in front of the Prince of Wales in front of a gathered crowd in eQonce. The occasion was nothing short of momentous, as Mqhayi's literary brilliance took center stage, weaving a poetic tapestry that transcended borders and captured the essence of Xhosa heritage.
The Illustrated London News noted that Mqhayi ‘wore a vermilion cape’, while ‘the chiefs behind’ him were ‘attired in a queer mixture of European garments.’ Given the significance of the colour red in Xhosa culture, this is a pointed contrast. However, the authenticity of this photograph is debatable. Other accounts have Mqhayi dressed in the full regalia of an imbongi, including a leopard-skin ‘kaross‘ (cloak), and a spear
Uyeye
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