Karingani Game Reserve sponsored the 127th anniversary of the Battle of Mapulanguene, the day of Maguiguane Khossa, with more than 1 million Meticais. Karingani joined the Mapulanguene Administrative Post and Magude district communities in organising the commemorations. The southern part of the reserve lies within the Mapulanguene Administrative Post.

Who was Maguiguane Khossa?

Every 10 August, Mozambique honours Maguiguane Khossa, the warrior chief of the State of Gaza who resisted Portuguese colonial occupation of southern Mozambique. He was killed on 10 August 1897, after being captured at the end of a battle with the Portuguese cavalry led by Joaquim Mouzinho de Albuquerque. A monument stands in Mapulanguene, where a major celebration is held each year.

The celebration

• Karingani’s sponsorship: more than 1 million Meticais, covering a concert, stage hire, a sound system, food and other services.
• Official ceremony: wreaths laid where Maguiguane Khossa was killed and buried, with a speech on his history by community leader Laura Malhaule, and speeches by the community, the Head of the Administrative Post and Magude District Administrator Lázaro Mbambamba.
• Culture and food: cultural exhibitions and a fair of agricultural products, handicrafts and local food.
• Headline act: South African musician General Muzka, who has ancestral roots in Mapulanguene, performed for about an hour and fifty minutes with local performers.

“Our presence in Mapulanguene symbolises the resistance of the Mozambican people. Whenever we remember the name of Maguiguana Cossa, we recognise his greatness and value. In this sense, the monument erected is an indelible mark of the Mozambican people’s resistance battle against colonial occupation.”

Why Karingani supports local heritage

Partnership with government, the private sector and local communities is one of Karingani’s six core values. The reserve’s name comes from the Changana language and refers to traditional storytelling and passing on values through oral tradition.

“The deep bond we have with the community that hosts our reserve and where a significant part of our employees come from reflects our commitment that goes beyond nature conservation and boosting the economy, but also encompasses valuing and preserving local cultures and traditions.”

Frequently asked questions

What is Maguiguane Khossa Day?

A celebration held every 10 August in honour of Maguiguane Khossa, the Gaza warrior chief who resisted Portuguese colonial occupation and was killed on 10 August 1897.

How did Karingani support the event?

Karingani sponsored it with more than 1 million Meticais, funding a concert, stage, sound system, food and other services.

Why is Karingani involved in Mapulanguene?

The southern part of the reserve lies within the Mapulanguene Administrative Post, and many of Karingani’s employees come from the surrounding community.