In this post I will explore some traditions that are celebrated throughout South Africa.
South Africa is not a homogeneous country. Its land is home to a large variety of people, making for an incredible blend of cultures. Because of this, there are not many traditions for the whole of the country, instead there are many specific traditions for each group of people. Below are some examples of traditions within some of the major ethnic groups of South Africa.
Zulu
The Zulu people are known for their shield bearing warriors. Each shield can be used to identify the rank of its warrior. There are five different kinds of shield available.
Furthermore, their belief is largely based on that of ancestral spirits, that are known to appear as messengers in dreams, as well as a supreme being who is rarely involved in the activities of its mortal followers.
Finally, the use and belief of magic is huge among the Zulu people, with any tragedy, miss fortune, or illness being blamed on evil spirits.
Xhosa
The Xhosa people are known best for their dress. In this group, one’s dress is used to signify their social status, marital status, and position in society.
Xhosa are also believers in ancestral worship, and tell many tales of ancestral heroes.
Ndebele
Painting architecture is a huge part of Ndeble culture and tradition. Bright colors and geometric designs are used to decorate the interiors and exteriors of all kinds of buildings within their villages. The task of this decoration is left to women. It is a hereditary task and therefore mothers are responsible for teaching their daughters the trade.
Ndebele women can often be identified apart from other tribes, due to their use of neck rings and traditional blankets.
Sotho
The people of Sotho groups are often organized into villages, which are further organized into age groups. This is different from many other groups, as they usually live in scattered settlements.
Folk art forms are extremely popular within this group, and consist of mainly; pottery, bead work and weaving.
Venda
The Venda people are known for their mythical beliefs in water. They are known to believe that lakes and rivers are sacred, and that rain is controlled by the python god.
Traditional healers, known as Sangoma, are believed to have access to spirits and ancestors, reaching out to them in times of support and advice.
Cattle are also considered an important symbol of wealth to the Venda people.
Modern
In the modern day, people are much more likely to abandon their ethnic groups’ cultural traditions in order to seek a ‘better life’ in the city, therefore turning to a western culture and lifestyle. However core traditions have been carried over and a clear blend of western and native traditions are evident in modern day music, art and food.
Dancing
Dancing is a huge part of each cultural division within South Africa. Almost all cultural groups use dance as a form of expression during celebrations and ceremonies. Some of the most known and celebrated dances include; Ingoma,Indlamu, Imvunulo, Isicathamiya and Sokkie.
Important celebrations
The Royal Reed Dance
The Royal Reed Dance is a Zulu holiday and festival where women are required to create beads and reeds to be worn as a parade enters the King’s palace.
The Cape town international Jazz Festival
Taking place in March and April, the two day festival allows a space for both local and international Jazz artists to showcase their talent.
Cape Town minstrel Carnival
Cape Town Minstrel Carnival is known by Afrikaans as kaapse Klopse. The celebration is always held on the first and second days of January, but can last up to a week. This event consists of costumed minstrels parading through Cape town whilst performing and playing music.
Arts Alive Festival
The festival is celebrated as an expression of life through artistic form. During this festival, people promote their values through visual and performing arts. It is a ten day event, which also includes international performances.
Oppikoppi Bushveld Festival
Held in August, located in Pretoria, Northam, and Northern Johannesburg, this festival boasts a range of jazz artists, DJ’s and comedic performances.
Knysna Oyster Festival
This festival is home to over one hundred small events, such as; cycle tours, eating competitions and marathons. With over 65,000 attendees, the event is held in July at Garden Route town.
Megan Hoff 