We are revitalizing our cultural diversity as part of the uMthayi Marula Festival/uMkhosi wamaGanu at the eMfihlweni Royal Residence and Sportfield. Hundreds of local women from the uMkhanyakude District presented their brewed Marula beer to Inkosi Mabhudu Tembe on the 15th February 2025. The festival centres on the celebration of the First Fruit of the Marula, where Marula Beer is brewed by all households within the Tembe traditional community. Once it has been shipped by Inkosi Tembe, it can then be used by all.
Marula is an agricultural product predominantly found in the uMkhanyakude District in KwaZulu-Natal. As government, we are committed to ensuring local communities benefit from agricultural products and natural resources within their habitat. We are also supporting youth-owned farms planting Marula. A decade ago, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development launched the R30 million Marula Processing Plant in the local KwaNgwanase area, which facilitates the production of Marula products such as jams, essential Marula oils, and other products. The Marula product has the potential to significantly grow the local economy. It is actually a beacon of hope for the rural economy, particularly for the district, which is also endowed with tourism benefits.
The festival also attracts attendees from neighbouring countries such as Mozambique and eSwatini, bridging the divide and fostering social cohesion among these countries.
