Mthethwa

Mthethwa is a surname found predominantly among Zulu and Ndebele people in Southern Africa. It is derived from the Zulu word "Mthethwa," which can refer to a historical kingdom or a clan name. The Mthethwa people were a prominent group in the KwaZulu-Natal region, particularly in the early 19th century, known for their military prowess and political influence. They played a significant role in the formation of the Zulu Kingdom under Shaka Zulu, as Shaka's father, Senzangakhona, was a vassal of Dingiswayo, the Mthethwa king.

The Mthethwa kingdom was centered around the area of the uMkhuze River. Dingiswayo, a powerful and influential leader, is credited with unifying various Nguni clans and laying the groundwork for a larger confederacy, which Shaka would later expand into the Zulu Empire. The Mthethwa are remembered for their organized military system and their contribution to the political landscape of the region. The surname Mthethwa continues to be common today, reflecting the enduring legacy of this historical group.