Special tribute paid to a revered King by Zululand Observer

A MUCH-loved visionary who made an important contribution to cultural identity, national unity, and economic development.This is how the late King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuZulu was remembered at a special service commemorating his life.The recent memorial service was held at Empangeni Civic Centre and hosted by Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, philanthropist, humanitarian and founder of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation.The service was attended by various high profile dignitaries, includingPrince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, KZN chairperson of the House of Traditional leadership Inkosi Phathisizwe Chiliza, religious leaders, Amabutho, Amakhosi, mayors, and councillors.Ramlutchman said he had a strong bond with the late king as they worked together for more than three decades.‘King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuZulu was honorary patron of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation. He gave the foundation so much wisdom to serve his people,’ he said.Ramlutchman is the only South African of Indian origin to have been adopted as a son by the Royal Zulu Monarch. He was the first Indian South African to be appointed as trustee of the Royal Household and made part of the Ezinyosi Zulu regiment. He was also given Zulu royal orders and a Zulu name, Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, by the late King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuZulu.‘He was indeed a king of goodwill. We could never imagine life without him. At the first anniversary of his passing, we sit back and look at his life and how he managed to foster good relations across the world. He was the great king of Africa, an alchemist of African greatness.‘He will be remembered as a muchloved visionary who made an important contribution to cultural identity, national unity, and economic development in KZN and to the development of our country as a whole.‘He was the most consistent voice and campaigner for peace and unity in South Africa and the world at large. It must be said that amid the sinister forces that sought to foment war and mayhem among the Zulu people, he always stood on the side of those who strived for peace, stability, and the prosperity of his people,’ Ramlutchman said.He further praised the late king for listening to the call of danger that had been rising from within the inner soul of the people, and for joining hands with the government and other structures to ensure the message about HIV/Aids was understood by all.‘On a more personal note, I had the singular privilege of working with King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuZulu closely over three decades. I was taken aback by his overriding concern for the welfare of the Zulu nation. His contribution to agriculture and education will always be admired. I will forever remember and treasure the bond I shared with His Majesty. Indeed, he was a great king in our lifetime,’ said Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu.