The Matimba coalition

[FACR2212]

(03-09-2025, 06:57 AM)FACR2212 Wrote:

A compiled History of the Matimba Coalition

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Part 1: From Birth to Power

Origins and Early Life (2006–2010)

The Matimba coalition (also known as the Phelwane males or Clarendon males) was composed of six male lions born between 2006 and 2007 in Ngala Game Reserve, Kruger National Park. Five of them were born into the Birmingham Pride, sired by the dominant Old Skybed males, who had taken over the pride in August 2006 after evicting the previous rulers. The sixth member, Nduna, was slightly older and had a different origin, being the son of a lone lioness known as the Lamula female. Despite coming from separate lineages, Nduna was eventually accepted by the five Birmingham males, forming a powerful coalition.

The Skybed males, their likely fathers, were dominant over Ngala at the time, ensuring a stable upbringing for the young Matimba lions. However, Nduna’s early life was marked by tragedy. According to some accounts, his mother, the Lamula female, was reportedly killed by a honey badger, although the exact circumstances remain unknown. Against all odds, Nduna survived alone until he was integrated into the Birmingham Pride, joining the five young males who would become his lifelong allies. With this union, the Matimba coalition was born, setting the stage for their rise to power.

Rise and Expansion (2010–2011)

In March 2010, the Matimba males were first seen together in Manyeleti Game Reserve. They claimed their first official territory after three Matimba males attacked and severely injured the Nkuhuma male, Dozie, eventually forcing him out. By October 2010, they had taken over his territory and Nkuhuma pride.

September 2010: Two Matimbas attacked and killed a young Skybeds male, but one Matimba was seriously injured in the fight.

December 2010: The Matimbas chased the Gijima males out of Manyeleti and took over their territory.

January-April 2011: The Matimbas began their takeover of the Skybeds pride, eventually driving out the three older Skybeds males. Later in 2011, a young Skybeds male was severely mauled by them. Nduna returned to Manyeleti and was seen with a pregnant Skybeds female.

July 2011: Reports describe the Matimba coalition as a dominant force, moving south and potentially challenging the Majingilanes. They attacked the 4ways (KNP) Pride, possibly endangering the cubs.

Late July 2011: Matimba males pursued the 4ways lionesses and were seen near Mala Mala. Their movements indicated a potential conflict with the Majingilane coalition.

Matimba vs. Mapogo: In June 2011, three Matimba males were involved in a battle against three Mapogo males (Makhulu, Pretty Boy, and Mr. T). The Mapogos sustained injuries and retreated west, leaving their former territory vulnerable. Some sources speculated whether the Matimbas, Othawa males, or another unknown coalition were responsible.

Matimba vs. Majingilane Confrontations: In August 2011, The Matimba and Majingilane coalitions had multiple encounters in northern Sabi Sands. Reports from rangers and lodges describe intense vocal and territorial clashes but no direct physical combat.

Nkorho Report: Four Matimba males were calling near Baboon Pan when three Majingilane males responded, marking their territory. A chase followed, with the Majingilanes initially retreating south before pursuing the Matimbas north. Both coalitions engaged in a tense territorial standoff throughout the morning.

Arathusa Report: The Matimbas moved into northern Sabi Sands, challenging Majingilane dominance. A vocal battle occurred, though no physical fight was reported. The Majingilanes were later seen resting, seemingly unsettled by the confrontation.

These encounters signaled rising tensions between the two powerful coalitions. These confrontations marked the beginning of the Majingilanes’ withdrawal from Djuma. A few months later, after Dark Mane Majingilane suffered an injury (though details remain unclear), the Majingilanes permanently left Djuma.


Following their first victory, the Matimba coalition became unstoppable. By 2011, they had taken over Manyeleti, displacing multiple dominant males and securing control over several prides. Their territory rapidly expanded beyond Manyeleti, stretching into Ngala and northern Sabi Sands. The Matimbas frequently patrolled enormous distances, showcasing their incredible endurance and physical prowess.


To be continued...

@Tr1x24 This is the post you asked me on private about Matimbas, it's divided in 5 parts/posts! Reply