Stephen Kumalo is a fictional character in the novel "Cry, the Beloved Country" by Alan Paton. He is a Zulu priest living in the rural village of Ndotsheni in South Africa. The story follows his journey to Johannesburg to find his son, Absalom, who has been accused of murder. Throughout his journey, Kumalo faces the challenges of a changing society and the impact of apartheid. His experiences highlight themes of loss, redemption, and the importance of family. Ultimately, Kumalo's character represents the struggle for understanding and reconciliation in a divided nation.