An Ethnographic Study of the Functions of Xitsonga Taboos in the 21st Century

Abstract

Taboos have historically played an important role in the upbringing of indigenous children by protecting them from harm while encouraging morality and discipline. This article examines the importance of taboos in the 21st century by analysing Xitsonga taboos that target girl and boy children. As an ethnographic study using a qualitative research method, data was collected through interviews as the primary source, and these were supplemented by observations as the secondary source. Informants were conveniently sampled from Vatsonga elders who are perceived as custodians of Xitsonga culture within the Malamulele area in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study shows that taboos are still relevant in the upbringing of children. Furthermore, the study highlights that Xitsonga taboos can be an effective tool to address and tackle some illnesses, issues of unemployment and moral decay amongst the youth. Finally, the study recommends some robust steps in bringing forth the use of taboos to address current challenges through the application of African epistemology.