People Of Matsamo - Introduction
The people residing in the various rural villages around Matsamo is predominantly Swazi in custom, tradition and language with a strong Sotho influence and has a well preserved and rich cultural heritage. They are part of the Shongwe clan, once a strong independent group with its own paramount King who in the time of King Mswati II swore allegiance to the Swazi King and helped defend the territory against intruders from the North. As part of the reward for his allegiance and loyalty, Chief Matsamo remained in control of the region as an important Swazi Royalty and absorbed the Sotho clans who lived in the area into his clan. “KA HHOHHO” a folk song, today still frequently sung by the community during festivities, tells the story about the Sotho Clansmen protesting against this Swazi absorption.
The passion with which this rural community practise their indigenous knowledge is undoubtedly a major contributor to the economic success of the Centre ensuring sustainability through tourism.
It is a wonderful example of a team of young people – nearly all under 30 - who discovered together how to apply their resources in a unique and responsible way to earn a sustainable income through tourism.
Matsamo provides an income to more than 100 people of which 48 are permanent staff members. Every single staff member has shares in the company. The fact that about 75% of us are woman was not planned, laughs the girls but certainly shows that woman plays a significant role in tourism and community development.
The cultural village first opened its doors in 2001 and Judged by the number of school children visiting the Centre and invitations received to perform at venues of importance, it is clear that Matsamo enjoys the support of the broader community for whom they have become an icon of pride to be African. |
