The Legend Behind My Village's Name, Ntsimangweni

By Thobelani Ncapai

Let me tell you the tale of how Ntsimangweni got its name! The first chief, Ndimitsi kaNcapai, stumbled upon a group of white-throated monkeys, known as intsimango, when he first arrived at what is now our village. He was so taken by these primate pals that he decided to name his new home after them, hence the name Ntsimangweni, meaning "the place of the Samango Monkey".

Although these monkeys are a rare sight in our village today, we have an abundance of wildlife in the nearby forests of Khwayeka and Dobokwana, where baboons run wild and free. Our village is made up of three smaller villages: Ntsheleni, Mbhinca, and Ntsimangweni, and is often called Mpamba after the towering Mpamba mountain.

Our tight-knit community is bursting with cultural pride, and we take great care to honor the traditions of our ancestors. Surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking landscapes, our village is a haven for nature lovers. There are plenty of nearby forests and rivers to explore, where you can spot a variety of exotic plant and animal species.

Ntsimangweni is a hidden gem in the heart of Africa, waiting to be discovered. Come and see for yourself the rich history and natural beauty of our village!



 

I strive to weave the threads of my rich heritage into the tapestry of my work, creating a unique narrative that celebrates my roots. I use my pen and lens to capture and share the richness of our world, inspired by the traditions and stories of my people.

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