Nkosikhona Phakel’umthakathi Ndabandaba: Biography, Age, Activism, Actor

Nkosikhona Phakel’umthakathi Ndabandaba (born 1980) is a South African traditional leader, cultural activist, actor, and anti-illegal immigration campaigner from Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal. He is best known for leading anti-illegal immigration marches and for acting as Mahlabeni in the epic historical drama series Shaka iLembe.

He is often described as a proud Zulu man and a custodian of Zulu culture. He has been involved in leading amabutho (Zulu warriors), particularly in the Mandlakazi region.

Biography: Nkosikhona "Phakel'umthakathi" Ndabandaba

Real Name: Nkosinathi Nkosiikhona Ndabandaba

Other names: Phakel'umthakathi

Place of Birth: Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN)

Date of Birth: 1980 (Age - 46)

Occupation: Traditional Leader, Cultural Activist, Actor

Known For: Anti-illegal Immigration Campaign

Children: 1 known child

Nationality: South African

Early Life and Background

Nkosikhona “Phakel’umthakathi” Ndabandaba was born as Nkosinathi Nkosiikhona Ndabandaba in 1980 in Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). He grew up in Nongoma deeply rooted in Zulu traditions and culture. ^[1]

He obtained his education at the University of South Africa. After that he worked as a journalist for about 10 years before gaining wider public attention. ^[2]

Rise to Prominence

Nkosikhona “Phakel’umthakathi” Ndabandaba gained significant national visibility in 2023 when he led Zulu amabutho warriors at the funeral of Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. His chest was notably painted with the late prince’s age and the Shenge clan name, showcasing traditional regalia and discipline. ^[1]

He is a skilled stick fighter and is respected as a leader who emphasizes Zulu values of respect, humility, and manhood. He runs initiatives like the University of Ubunsizwa (or Boys Academy), which focuses on grooming young boys into responsible men through cultural teachings. ^[3]

Career of Phakel’umthakathi

He transitioned into television, appearing in productions such as Shaka iLembe where he played the role of Mahlabeni. In 2024 he appeared in Smoke & Mirrors for a minor role. He is selective about roles, refusing kissing or intimate scenes due to his religious beliefs and traditional leadership position. [1]

He serves as a traditional MC, conducts youth and men’s bootcamps, and teaches Zulu cultural ways of life. He is active on social media (TikTok @phakelumthakathi, Instagram, Facebook) where he shares cultural insights, commentary, and addresses social issues. ^[3]

Activism of Phakel’umthakathi

In 2026 Nkosikhona “Phakel’umthakathi” Ndabandaba joined “March and March Until We Win” movement which was founded by Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma. Together with Ngizwe Mchunu, they lead protests against undocumented or illegal immigrants, particularly focusing on black immigrants from Africa. He has participated in marches in places like Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. ^[4]

Controversies

In some interviews Phakel’umthakathi said he wants all foreigners to leave the country, then South Africans will sort the borders and internal issues without foreigners’ interferences. He has faced controversies, including arrests linked to stolen weapons allegations and accusations of xenophobia or tribalism. ^[5]

Some activists have accused him of afrophobia, a fear and hatred against African immigrants after noticing that he targets African immigrants only.

Nkosikhona “Phakel’umthakathi” Ndabandaba has also addressed personal rumors, such as claims about a Zimbabwean partner. He agreed to have dated a Zimbabwean before but denied allegations of hatred against foreigners because of that failed relationship. ^[6]

In 2026, he reportedly received a Ford Ranger vehicle as a gift from supporters. ^[7]