“On the 20 September 2013, we will be slaughtering cows,” read the invitation from the Mbhele family to a Zulu ritual in honor of ancestors. “On the 21 September 2013, we are inviting all members of iTEACH to be with us.”
It was my honor to attend an Umcimbi at the family’s home in Elandskop along with my girlfriend and two of her colleagues. The Mbhele family could not have been more gracious or welcoming.
On Friday night we sat with the elders in the family’s round house, took turns cutting the freshly slaughtered cattle and enjoyed some of the freshest beef you can imagine. The meat had been cooked on the braai and rubbed with coarse salt.
The next day we dined with guests on beef curry and yellow rice, and took part in traditional singing and dancing.
Special thanks to Nhlaka Mbhele for being a terrific guide. I look forward to our continued friendship.