#6 KING MZILIKAZI TO KING LOBENGULA

King Mzilikazi builds a powerful and disciplined nation in his 28 years of rule in today’s Matabeleland. He builds in a time of peace and growth - to die in 1868 at around 78 years of age. His legacy is that of a loved and honoured leader. BUT he leaves no nominated heir. The fight is on to find who will succeed him - just as the world realises that the next great gold rush is aimed right at Matabeleland.

The King’s bangle - a precious relic obtained by dubious means. If you are interested in making a comment from your knowledge or curiosity, I’d love to hear from you. Just click the title and it will take you to another page where you can add comments. Photo V&A Museum, London

#5 MOTSHODI AND THE BAKWENA CHILDREN

With King Mzilikazi the leader of a growing nation as the disciplined but warlike maTebele swept across the Northern Transvaal in the early 1800's, another name kept coming to the historical fore. This intriguing character with verified reports of his extraordinary courage changed history! I found his name dotted through many early stories of South Africa and Matabeleland but there was never a clue as to who he really was, where he came from or why he did what he did!

The baKwena people were an interesting tribe who had lived on the edge of the Magaliesberg for many years - but who felt the full wrath of the Matebele during the mfecane. Photo: Nicola Lynch

#4 JABU PROVES HIS MANHOOD

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In Episode 4 released (from Friday 17th April) Jabu has to prove his manhood following his traditional circumcision ceremony - and two Indunas in London get a surprise!

The use of accents and conversation to bring our history to life - means I have to vary from Scottish, to Irish, to trying to differentiate the accents of three of the main characters, all amaNdebele boys. Very taxing - and sometimes pretty awful - but it does add colour and interest - I hope! Photo: Ant Lourens