[Source – Benathi Marufu for FHYA, 2023, using materials provided by Cory Library and Sanele KaNtshingana: Samuel Edward Krune Mqhayi was born in Gqumashe in Alice, in 1875 and he died in 1945. The poet’s autobiography entitled UMqhayi waseNtabozuko, published in 1939, is a rich source of information about this legend, considered by many to be the father of Xhosa.
A teacher and translator, Mqhayi was also a prolific reader, journalist and editor. His translation of Kees van die Kalahari as UAdonisi waseNtlango indicates his scholarship and commitment to developing the literature of his mother tongue. In his preface to his poem ‘Imbongi yesizwe’, Jolobe commends Mqhayi for his contribution, acknowledging that Ityala lamawele was a pivotal work that inspired many other writers in the Xhosa language.
His contributions to newspapers such as Izwi Labantu, Imvo and Umteteli wa Bantu earned him the title of ‘Imbongi yakwaGompo’ (The Poet of Gompo) and later, ‘Imbongi yesizwe’ (The Poet of the Nation). His poetry also focuses on events and individuals outside of the immediate Xhosa tribe and landscape, transcending South Africa’s borders, hence the designation ‘Imbongi yesizwe jikelele’ (The Poet of the Nation All Over).
His literary contributions are meticulously and comprehensively documented in Patricia Scott’s 1976 bibliographic survey of SEK Mqhayi’s works. His contribution of seven additional stanzas to Enoch Sontonga’s ‘Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika’, which he published in Umteteli wabantu on 11 June 1927, is notable. This great hymn was later adopted as a national anthem by many African countries.
Mqhayi lives on in the memory of the Xhosa people. His grave in Berlin, near King William’s town, is a Heritage site.]
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