Princess Charlene of Monaco has attended the memorial service for Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini at the KwaKhethomthandayo Royal Palace in Nongoma, South Africa. Princess Charlene was born in Bulawayo, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), and moved to South Africa at the age of 11 and even represented South Africa in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
King Goodwill Zwelithini died on 12 March at the age of 72 in Durban. His remains were transported back to Nongoma where he was laid to rest late last night. The location of his grave will remain a secret.
Embed from Getty ImagesKing Goodwill Zwelithini was the longest-serving monarch of the Zulu Kingdom, and he was appointed to the throne at the age of 20 following the death of his father in 1968. He was not crowned until 1971 due to security fears following a plot to have him killed. The future King was born on 14 July 1948 as the eldest son of King Cyprian Bhekuzulu and his second wife Queen Thomo.
Embed from Getty ImagesIt is unclear if the King had appointed a successor but among his many children, Prince Misuzulu Zulu – the eldest son from his marriage to Mantfombi Dlamini, the Great Wife and daughter of King Sobhuza II of Swaziland – is considered to be a serious contender.
King Goodwill Zwelithini was survived by his six Queens and 28 Princes and Princesses.
