Mapoch Ndebele village
The village is a real cultural treat and offers visitors the chance to retreat from the daily hustle and bustle of the modern world. Time-old traditions still form part of the villagers’ daily lives and this is what sets the Mapoch Ndebele village apart. Marriages are still conducted traditionally where lobola (dowry) must be paid by the groom’s family for the bride. Every four years, boys are taken into the bush for two months where they learn about the Ndebele culture, history, value and traditional poems. The boys’ initiation into manhood is complete when they get circumcised at the end of the two months.
All buildings are painted and decorated in the famous multi-coloured Ndebele geometric patterns, which form an integral part of the Ndebele culture. Mural painting is passed down the generations, from mother to daughter, and each woman’s mural is unique and means something different. Visitors can stay at the village’s guest house, also painted in the Ndebele geometric art, which can accommodate up to 16 people.
All village-guided tours are offered by a member of the community, who’ll help you understand the cultural norms and the history behind the ceremonies. Visitors can also support the community by purchasing hand-made beaded items. All meals are cooked in the village by the village catering team, with an option of an a la carte menu.
The village conference centre and guest house are held in a village trust and all facilities and services are managed and run by village locals to ensure self-sustainability.
Visit www.ndebelevillage.co.za for more information.