Mthatha, also known as Umtata, is a city located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It serves as the primary city of the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality and functions as the capital of the OR Tambo District Municipality.
The city's name originates from the nearby Mthatha River, which was named after the sneezewood (umtati) trees known for their medicinal properties and wood. The area is also home to an airport that was formerly referred to as the K. D. Matanzima Airport.