Motsenekatse Has Nothing To Do With Mzilikazi

Motsenekatse hills, named after Matebele leader Mzilikazi bears a rich history that has attracted attention from historians, scholars and tourists, among others. Even though the monument is named after the biggest of the three hills, which is situated on the Western side just off the Kgomokasitwa gravel road, the smaller Mmadithakwana is the one believed to have been the main abode for Mzilikazi while his troops sandwiched him and elevated atop Motsenekatse and Motsenekatsana on either side, with the intention to spot enemies from afar (Posted on Facebook by Norinasi, 9 March 2022). Among the myths peddled in Botswana by self-appointed social media heritage experts, one seemingly incapable of dying is that Motsenekatse hill (near Molapowabojang) is named after the legendary AmaNdebele inkosi Mzilikazi Khumalo, and this myth claims too that he occupied the site. It popped up once again yesterday (Sunday, 10 August 2025) atop the very hill when the assembled hikers (paying for the privilege!) were told they were standing where the mighty monarch once stood. This tall tale, as spun by Norinasi and other heritage boondogglers, can be debunked on a number of counts. And, to everyone's benefit, the imaginary Mzilikazi can readily be replaced with much more interesting things about this site than the fantasies being marketed.