Siphelele Nketo
TWO Kokstad youths, Yamkela Ndzaba (24) and his friend Andile Mbungwa (24), have overcome criticism for championing traditional Zulu culture of AmaBhinca in the Horseshoe township. Bhinca fashion has been labelled as being outdated by some, but the pair have loved the style from a young age despite Kokstad’s diverse mix of cultures. The duo said they wanted to adhere to their Zulu tradition by wearing Bhinca clothing during ceremonies and in public areas. At the same time, they want to embrace their traditional Zulu identity and also to revitalise the tradition among younger generations.
Parts of the Bhinca outfits for men include tailored trousers, shirts and traditional sandals. When Mbungwa decided to wear Bhinca clothes in 2021, a change from wearing skinny jeans, he said he was criticised by many people who were concerned about the high-priced Bhinca garments. But Mbungwa said that was not a problem for him because all he wanted was to look elegant. He described the Bhinca lifestyle as something that changed his life. He says he went from being an irresponsible man to having a level of maturity.
“My life was imperfect and full of mistakes before I joined the Bhinca lifestyle. Now I have changed for the better, like paying attention to every thought as a responsible man,” he said.
Ndzaba, also known as Jack Zulu kaMageba, said that wearing Bhinca clothing earned him a gig in 2023 when he became a brand ambassador for a clothing store.
“The contract with the clothing brand was to wear and promote their clothes on my platforms,” he said. He says he now wishes to partner with big brands.
