WE ARE STILL LIVING IN DARKEST AFRICA It was with a mixture of disgust and despondency that I watched Special Assignment last night. Disgust at the practice, and despondency because this is happening in this so-called New South Africa today. In fact, let me be brutally honest and admit that what I really felt. Disdain: a feeling of contempt for someone or something regarded as unworthy or inferior, according to Merriam-Webster.

It has certainly further re-enforced my aversion to this thing called culture.

Some members – many members – of the amaCele, amaBaca and amaMpondo communities of the Eastern Cape still believe in, and practice ‘Ukuthwala.’

Children between the ages of 12-15 years are being abducted and forced into early marriages.
One resident, voicing the opinion of many states ‘This is exactly what we call 'back to our roots'. I approve it because these young girls get pregnant at the age of 12, so it is better to have them early.’
Another says ‘ If you wait until they are 18 they will have three children by then. It is best to get them while they are still pure.’

Police refuse to act, stating that they cannot interfere in ‘community law.’

In the meantime, a man was arrested in Mthata on Wednesday for burning the feet of 11 people in a promise to heal them of disease, for a fee.

"The man said once a person's feet was burnt with hot stones they would be healed from their disease."
The 11, aged between 19-65, are all now unable to walk.

I’m telling you.
Darkest Africa.

Kader Khan
Editor
info@yummie.co.za