Humble Settlement of Madiba
The town of Qunu is the home of legendary former president Nelson Mandela. Mabida, affectionately known as ‘the father of the nation’, grew up in a traditional village that would set the tone of his incredible life.
Most of the local residents of Qunu are part of the Madiba clan, and several homesteads belong to direct relatives of Mandela. He came to live in the village around 2 years old when his father was deposed as a traditional leader in Mvevzo, a nearby village. Mandela’s father went on to have a great impact on the village, influencing many decisions of the clan and helping to maintain order.
Mandela had a modest childhood, herding cattle and making the beautiful hills of Qunu his playground. After Madiba’s release from prison, he returned to his homestead in the village. The village represents his ‘old life’ before he became involved in politics and the liberation movement during the oppressive apartheid years.
His incarceration was a result of political turmoil that saw him behind bars for 27 years on Robben Island. Once Madiba’s presidential term was finished, he chose Qunu to be the place of this retirement. After his passing in 2013, he was buried in Qunu as well.
Although the village is seen as impoverished, many of the residents have embraced the ‘pilgrimage’ status of Qunu. Visitors flock to the town, interested to discover where Mandela spent his formative years and locals are happy to share their insights and traditional way of life with travelers.
Today there is a Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu, the vocal point of the modest settlement. The centre is home to various artefacts of the young Madiba, and a village walking tour is also on offer. The walk allows visitors to see Mandela’s primary school, and other points of interest, like where he used to play as a child.