Farewell to Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi

The late Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi, the youngest daughter of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, was laid to rest on Saturday, October 26, 2023, at the KwaPhindangene royal palace in Mahlabathini, northern KwaZulu-Natal. Her burial took place beside her father’s grave, following his passing on September 23, 2024. 

Princess Angela, aged 55, had served as a member of Parliament for the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP). She passed away on October 21, after falling ill while attending a parliamentary session in Cape Town.

The funeral service drew a large crowd of politicians and business leaders, despite adverse weather conditions. Notable attendees included National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, prominent businesswoman Bridgette Motsepe, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, and Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa.

Members of the Zulu royal family were also present, including Queen Thandekile Ndlovu-Zulu, widow of the late King Zwelithini, and Prince Simangaye Zulu, brother of the current King Misuzulu. 

During the service, Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi, Princess Angela’s brother and head of the Buthelezi clan, reflected on the family’s recent losses. He noted the significance of his sister’s name, Sibuyiselwe, which means “returned,” alluding to the family’s grief over the earlier loss of another daughter, Princess Sinikwakonke, in a car accident.

Prince Zuzifa expressed deep sorrow as he transported his sister’s coffin from Cape Town to Durban, emphasizing the emotional weight of their farewell. He described Angela as a dedicated public servant, having contributed her skills in various capacities, including with the South African Police Service and in the national Assembly.

In her tribute, Didiza expressed gratitude to the Buthelezi family for their longstanding contributions to South Africa. She highlighted Princess Angela’s commitment to public service, underscoring that she chose to serve her community rather than pursue personal wealth, in line with her name’s meaning.

With the passing of Princess Angela, only Prince Zuzifa and Princess Phumzile remain among Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s children with Queen Thandekile Mzila-Buthelezi. The family, once consisting of eight siblings, now navigates their loss together.

The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the impact the Buthelezi family has had on the nation’s history and the enduring legacy of service they represent.