amakhanda

Amakhanda were fortified settlements established by the Zulu people, particularly during the 19th century under leaders like Shaka. These settlements were a key part of the Zulu kingdom's defense strategy, providing protection against raiders and housing refugees. The Zulu, a Nguni people, are the largest ethnic group in South Africa and traditionally lived in organized clan structures, with chiefs leading in war and peace. Their settlements, like amakhanda, were part of a larger social and military organization that defined the Zulu nation.12