Mangosuthu Buthelezi: Age, Biography, Wife, Children, and Net Worth
In this comprehensive article, we delve into the life and legacy of Mangosuthu Buthelezi, a prominent South African politician and Zulu prince. We’ll explore his age, biography, family life, and his financial standing.
Age:
Mangosuthu Buthelezi was born on August 27, 1928, in Mahlabathini, Natal, South Africa. He passed away on September 9, 2023, in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, at the age of 95.
Biography:
Mangosuthu Buthelezi was a significant figure in South African politics. He was the founder and leader of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a political party dedicated to advancing the rights and interests of the Zulu people. His involvement in leadership extended beyond politics, as he also served as the traditional prime minister to the Zulu royal family from 1954 until his passing in 2023.
Chief Buthelezi’s lineage traced back to King Cetshwayo kaMpande, who led the Zulu nation during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Notably, he portrayed his great-grandfather in the film “Zulu,” depicting the historic Battle of Rorke’s Drift. While he stood as a staunch opponent of apartheid and supported Nelson Mandela, his political journey was marked by clashes with the African National Congress (ANC) over issues like federalism and violence.
Wife:
Mangosuthu Buthelezi married Irene Audrey Thandekile Mzila in 1952. Irene, known as Princess Irene among the Zulu people, was the daughter of Dr. Nembula Mzila, a prominent medical doctor and politician. She passed away in 2019 at the age of 89 after battling a long illness. Princess Irene was celebrated for her unwavering support for her husband and her dedication to promoting education and women’s empowerment.
Children:
Mangosuthu Buthelezi and Irene had eight children together:
1. Princess Phumzile (born 1953)
2. Prince Zuzifa (born 1955)
3. Prince Ntuthukoyezwe (born 1957)
4. Princess Sibuyiselwe (born 1960)
5. Prince Phumaphesheya (born 1962)
6. Princess Lethuxolo (born 1964)
7. Prince Nelisuzulu (born 1966)
8. Prince Siphosethu (born 1970)
Tragically, five of their children passed away before Chief Buthelezi. Prince Ntuthukoyezwe died in a car accident in 1969, Princess Sibuyiselwe succumbed to meningitis in 1976, Prince Phumaphesheya lost his life to AIDS-related complications in 2004, Princess Lethuxolo battled cancer and passed away in 2012, and Prince Nelisuzulu passed away due to diabetes in 2014. He was survived by three children: Princess Phumzile, Prince Zuzifa, and Prince Siphosethu.
Net Worth:
While the exact net worth of Mangosuthu Buthelezi is not publicly known, he was widely regarded as one of South Africa’s wealthiest politicians. His financial portfolio included various properties and businesses, such as a farm, a hotel, a casino, and a newspaper. Additionally, he received royalties from the film “Zulu” and from his mother’s recordings as a traditional singer. It’s worth noting that Chief Buthelezi faced allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement from some critics, which he consistently denied throughout his career.
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In conclusion, Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s life and contributions left an indelible mark on South African history, both in the political arena and as a member of the Zulu royal family. His legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered in the years following his passing.
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