Ndebele, also called Ndebele of Zimbabwe, or Ndebele Proper, formerly Matabele, Bantu-speaking people of southwestern Zimbabwe who now live primarily around the city of Bulawayo. They originated early in the 19th century as an offshoot of the Nguni of Natal.
There are three main groups of Ndebele people:
- The Southern Transvaal Ndebele (now Gauteng and Mpumalanga)
- The Northern Transvaal Ndebele (now Limpopo Province) around the towns of Mokopane (Potgietersrus) and Polokwane (Pietersburg).
- The Ndebele people of Zimbabwe, who were called the Matabele by the British.
The two regional Ndebele groups were not only separated geographically, but also differed in their language and cultural practices
Ndebele Village, Mpumalanga, South Africa. Flickr / South African Tourism
The colourful and bright geometric designs with which the Ndebele beautify their homes. Image Credit Flickr (1) & (2)
Young men from the Ndebele tribe in South Africa pose on their initiation day. 1 Jan 1985. Flickr / United Nations Photo
Two mothers from the Ndebele tribe wait for their sons to start marching and dancing after their initiation ceremony. 1 Jan 1984. Flickr / United Nations Photo
A woman from the Ndebele tribe in South Africa carries a traditional beer container. 1 Jan 1983. Flickr / United Nations Photo
An Ndebele woman traditional brass neck ring attire and a Western-style hat. Flickr / United Nations Photo
Ndebele Arts and Crafts & A close up of the delicate and skillful Ndebele beadwork. Flickr (1) South African Tourism
Traditional Dolls & Toys by the Ndebele people. Flickr/ FiverLocker
Elders & Women of Ndebele Village, Mpumalanga, South Africa. Flickr / South African Tourism (1) & (2)
Bright colours and bold patterns adorn the house and clothing of the South African Ndebele tribe.
Flickr / (1) United Nations Photo & (2) FiverLockr
[Header image] – Ndebele Village, Mpumalanga, South Africa – South African Tourism / Flickr
Sources:
– South African History Online – Ndebele
– Briticanna– Ndebele Zimbabwean people