Bhaca people
| Regions with significant populations | |
|---|---|
Eastern Cape ( South Africa) |
|
| Languages | |
| isiBhaca | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity, African Traditional Religion | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Xhosa, Swati, Zulu other Bantu peoples |
| Person | umBhaca |
|---|---|
| People | amaBhaca |
| Language | isiBhaca |
| Country | kwaBhaca |
The Bhaca people or amaBhaca are an ethnic group in South Africa, mainly found in the small towns of the former Transkei homeland, Mount Frere, Umzimkhulu and surrounding areas - a region that the amaBhaca call kwaBhaca, or "place of the Bhaca".
"AmaBhaca" allegedly originates from the Nguni word ukubhaca, meaning to flee. This claim is supported by the popular belief that the amaBhaca was adopted during their flight during the Mfecane. During the Mfecane the amaBhaca, led by King Madzikane, settled an area bordering the present day Eastern Cape and the KwaZulu-Natal regions. Among the amaBhaca, the word ukubhaca also refers to the ritual scarring of the face known as ukuchaza, a complex rite that is sometimes performed for healing purposes.
The amaBhaca speak isiBhaca, which is closely related to Swati. IsiBhaca is influenced by the Xhosa and Zulu languages.
While the amaBhaca are often considered to be part of the more populous Xhosa people, they maintain an independent kingdom and distinct culture.
King Ncapayi had many wives. First wife Makhohlisa (daughter of Dzanibe clan) gave birth to King Diko and Sogoni. Second wife Indlu yekunene bore him Makaula and Dabula, while third wife Iqadi lendlu enkulu produced Dabula and Mphongoma.
Ncapayi is said to have been a fearless freebooter, a diplomat of note who showed more intelligence than his father Madzikane.
According to Rev. Soga, during the year that Madzikane was killed, Ncaphayi entered Thembuland to avenge the death. The Thembus under King Ngubengcuka made an ineffectual stand and the Bhacas swept away a large number of cattle.
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Wikipedia