MPANZA, CHARLES J.
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Charles J. Mpanza (November 26, 1896-April 22, 1960) was a teacher, author and pioneer Zulu broadcaster.
He came from a Christian family which wielded significant influence in the Eshowe district of Zululand. In addition to his pioneering work in Zulu broadcasting, he was interpreter for the Zulu Regent, and participated in national Zulu politics. His concern with the preservation of Zulu culture led to his involvement with the Zulu Society, a cultural organisation sponsored by the National Bantu Teachers’ Union.
Mpanza was born at Kwa-Mondi in the Eshowe district. He attended local schools before going to Umpumulo Institute for teacher training. He went on to Adams College, where he became part of the first group of students to pass the first Grade Teacher examination. He taught at Umpumulo Institute until the early 1930s when he left to become the secretary of the Zulu Society.
During this period, he worked with Chief Albert Lutuli and other Zulu chiefs and elders in the promotion of the Society’s work. He was subsequently appointed aide and interpreter to Prince Mshiyeni ka Dinuzulu, uncle of the future King Cyprian. In 1939 he published a book, Untiningwe Inja YakwaZulu. In 1940 he was employed by the South African Broadcasting Corporation as news translator and as the first broadcaster in the Zulu language. In 1945 he joined the South African Railways as one of the few administrative employees in charge of African workers. In 1953 his obituary of Prince Mshiyeni was published in Drum magazine.
Mpanza died in 1960, survived by three of his four sons and by his wife, the former Ethel Mbulu. Mrs. Mpanza’s memory of her husband is that of a family man with a romantic and brilliant personality who was extremely articulate in English, and who was also a gifted piano player.
NOMATHEMBA SITHOLE
