Origins of the name “Ndlambe Local Municipality”

The municipality derives its name from Chief Ndlambe, a prominent amaXhosa leader who historically inhabited the region. As Dutch-descended European travelers, explorers, and farmers—commonly known as Boers—moved into the area in the late 1700s, they encountered Chief Ndlambe as the highest-ranking authority.

By 1796, his Great Place was established along the banks of the Bushman’s River, where many of the new arrivals met with him.

Initial Peace and Rising Tensions

During the early decades of Boer settlement, Ndlambe’s authority went unchallenged. However, as more settlers arrived, their desire for political control intensified. In 1811, Dutch-speaking farmers persuaded the British colonial government to forcibly remove African inhabitants from the area between the Sundays and Fish Rivers, then known as the Zuurveld—named for its sour grasslands.

Ndlambe’s Resistance and British Aggression

Ndlambe and his sub-chiefs attempted to negotiate with the British military. In a dramatic meeting with Col. John Graham, Ndlambe emphatically declared, “This land is mine!” Despite his resistance, the British began military action. Ndlambe orchestrated a night-time evacuation of his people across the Fish River, cleverly using cattle horns to carry their belongings. The British failed to intercept them.

Destruction of the Zuurveld

Following the evacuation, the British implemented a scorched-earth campaign to prevent return. Villages were destroyed, grain stores ruined, and crops trampled. Many African stragglers were killed, while some women and children were captured and enslaved as domestic workers.

Continuing Conflict and the Brereton Raid

Between 1812 and 1819, Ndlambe’s followers continued to resist. The tension escalated during the “Brereton Raid,” in which Col. Thomas Brereton led British forces to seize 20,000 cattle. In retaliation, Ndlambe’s forces launched guerrilla raids on Boer farms. The growing instability forced Boer farmers to abandon the Zuurveld, prompting the Governor to declare a state of emergency.

The Battle of Grahamstown (1819)

With guidance from his military and spiritual advisor, Makanda, Chief Ndlambe rallied support from amaXhosa warriors across the region. On 22 April 1819, an estimated 10,000 soldiers led by Makanda and Ndlambe’s son, Dushani, attacked the British garrison at Grahamstown. Despite their numbers, the Xhosa were defeated by British artillery, suffering 2,000 casualties.

British Retaliation and Aftermath

In the months following the battle, the British escalated their efforts. They summoned reinforcements and launched further attacks. Ndlambe and Dushani escaped beyond the Kei River. Makanda surrendered and was imprisoned on Robben Island, where he died in an escape attempt the following year.

The Ceded Territory and Return of the amaNdlambe

By October 1820, the war ended with Ndlambe’s people agreeing to relocate beyond the Keiskamma River. The region between the Fish and Keiskamma Rivers became known as the “ceded territory.” However, over time, sub-chiefs were granted permission to reoccupy the land, initially for grazing and later for settlement.

Peacebuilding and Missionary Influence

Missionaries arriving in the 1820s found Ndlambe living near Mount Coke, close to present-day King Williams Town. In 1824, he permitted the construction of a mission station near his Great Place. These missionaries played a vital role in fostering peaceful relations between the amaNdlambe and the British, helping to mediate disputes over land, cattle, and trade, while introducing Christianity and education.

The Death and Legacy of Chief Ndlambe

Chief Ndlambe passed away in 1828 at an estimated age of over 90. He had ten wives, and his nation mourned his passing by shaving their heads. His steadfast defense of his people’s sovereignty earned him the title “Father of African Nationalism.”

Historical Context and Early Life

Ndlambe’s life bridged a transformative era in South African history. Born before European settlement in the southeastern region, he was the son of Rharabe, the first Xhosa chief to unify Xhosa and Khoisan peoples west of the Fish River.

Contrary to Eurocentric narratives, archeological evidence indicates the Zuurveld was occupied by Iron Age people culturally similar to the amaXhosa as early as the 12th century. The misconception arises because Rharabe, from east of the Kei River, only formally asserted authority in 1760. Before that, various clans including amaXhosa, Gonaqua, and Gqunukwebe inhabited the area.

Ndlambe’s Role as Regent and Warrior

Ndlambe acted as regent of the Xhosa kingdom from 1782 to 1796 before handing power to his nephew, Ngqika. He retained control over the Zuurveld and engaged in various conflicts—initially allying with Boers in 1796, then joining Khoisan rebels against them from 1799 to 1803. His leadership in wars against the British in 1811 and 1819 led to the displacement and eventual resettlement of his people beyond the Keiskamma River.