PROLOGUE AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Preserving Our Ancestral Legacy

In African history, our heritage has primarily been passed down through oral traditions, resulting in various versions and distortions over time. The early historiography was predominantly influenced by white perspectives, portraying Africans as inferior. As we delve into the Nxasana genealogy and attempt to reconstruct our history, verifying sources and stories has proven challenging.

Honoring Our Ancestors:

We express our gratitude to the late Nxasanas who shared their wisdom and played a significant role in the creation of this manuscript. Among them are Ntombende Muriel Nxasana ka Nyembezi ka Soli Nxasana, Bhekisisa Harold Nxasana ka King ka Soli Nxasana, Ntomb’zandile Mrewa (nee’ Nxasana) ka Nyembezi ka Soli Nxasana, Rhoda Mba (MaNxasana) ka Gidward ka Soli Nxasana, and Layilayi ka Lanti kaMabhongo Nxasana.

Exploring Our Sources:

To reconstruct our history, we have examined letters written by Soli and his successors, with special thanks to Anti Ntombende Nxasana for preserving these valuable letters. Some date back as far as March 1937. Additionally, we have conducted surveys of books, pamphlets, internet articles, and other publications to compile this history.

Commemorating Soli Nxasana:

The commemoration of Soli Nxasana on December 15, 2007, serves as a constant reminder of the values and virtues cherished by the Nxasana family. These guiding principles shape our lives, attitudes, and behaviours, paving the way for future generations.

Unveiling Our Ancestral Journey:

As we embark on this voyage of discovering our ancestors, delving into Soli’s character and the values upheld by his predecessors, we hope to inspire further scientific and literary research into the rich history, stories, myths, and beliefs of the Nxasana lineage. Perhaps one day, a “Dr. Nxasana” or a descendant of the Nxasana clan will unveil the origins of this esteemed lineage.

Acknowledgements:

We extend our gratitude to all the Nxasanas and Mvusis who contributed to the construction of our family tree. Special thanks are due to individuals like Bab’ Bhekisisa Nxasana, Sibusiso Nxasana (kaSimphiwe, ka King, ka Soli Nxasana), Khumbulani Nxasana (kaHodges, kaHolon, ka Soli Nxasana), Aunt Rhoda Mba (MaNxasana, kaGidward, ka Soli Nxasana), Thandi Nxumalo (MaNxasana, kaBachithile, kaMakethe, kaSoli Nxasana), Dano Meyiwa (kaNtombi Chiliza, kaAsiena, ka Soli Nxasana), Aunt Nisa Mvusi (umaJolobe owenda no Selborne Mvusi, kaVunina, kaSoli Nxasana), Aunt Elva Zwane (MaMvusi, kaVunina, kaSoli Nxasana), Malum’ Xhaki Mvusi (kaVunina, kaSoli Nxasana), Themba Mvusi (kaGaba Mvusi, kaVunina, kaSoli Nxasana), and Sis Thami Dyasi (MaNxasana, kaGerman, kaMajavu, kaSoli Nxasana).

Ningadinwa Nangomuso!