▼ This research investigates the importance of Zulu culture, with special emphasis on umsamo and isibaya. This research looks at the role played by umsamo and isibaya when amaZulu perform their culture. This research attempts to find out the sanctity of umsamo to the Zulu nation. It also gives an explanation of what umsamo is to those who might not understand it, so that they can understand it. The research also reveals when umsamo is used, who has the right or responsibility to address umsamo and also what is taken to umsamo when addressing it. Furthermore, the research shows the relationship between umsamo and isibaya, since both these places and areas are the abode of the ancestors. Just like umsamo, isibaya’s importance as well as the work or functions conducted there are revealed by this research. This research is divided into five chapters. Chapter one is the introduction where we look at the problem leading to the research, the aims of the research, the motivation for the research, the method of conducting the research and the beneficiaries of the research. Chapter two looks at the different forms of data collection then finally select those forms to be used to conduct the research. Chapter three looks at all the data that has ever been collected on umsamo and isibaya. The section also shows different ideas by different writers and well-experienced researchers who have done research on this subject. The researcher analyses other researcher’s ideas to find out their similarities and differences. Chapter four shows the ideas from people residing in Mandeni who are knowledgeable about Zulu culture. These people were born and bred in Mandeni and are relied upon or trusted on their knowledge of Zulu culture. This section also touches on the information of newspapers especially Isolezwe, Ilanga neLanga LangeSonto since they have columns vii dedicated to investigating and explaining Zulu culture. In these columns different Zulu culture intellectuals are used. Chapter five gives an overall summary of the research, recommendations and conclusion. Advisors/Committee Members: Khuzwayo, B.C (advisor), L.M%22%29&pagesize-30">Khumalo, Z.L.M (advisor).