The role of the Vhavenda women in managing marital conflicts in Thulamela Municipality, Thohoyandou: An indigenous perspective

abstract

This article investigates the role played by women in managing marital conflicts among the Vhavenda people in Thulamela Municipality, Thohoyandou. The study enquires into the roles and responsibilities of the makhadzi (paternal aunt) within the Vhavenda culture to maintain family security and integrity. The makhadzi are regarded highly among the Vhavenda as custodians of religious and traditional knowledge and as a resource to the family and community. The research adopted a qualitative research approach which allowed the researcher to inquire into the matter under investigation. Desktop research and review of literature were also used. A non-random sampling procedure was employed and a purposive sampling method was used to recruit participants in the villages around Thohoyandou. Participants were selected based on experience and traditional knowledge of the makhadzi. Data was collected through unstructured interviews which allowed for probing. The findings revealed that the makhadzi hold authority for sustaining and preserving custom in the conduct of marriages and in resolving family disputes. The makhadzi may act as a conduit of communication, acting as a negotiator or a mediator. From this study it is evident that cultural practices adopted in managing marital conflicts should be revisited since they are important in maintaining relationships in the family and social cohesion.

keywords:

• marriage conflict
• makhadzi (paternal aunt)
• family dispute resolution
• Vhavenda indigenous knowledge

Notes

1. A customary marriage is not recognised if customary law is not followed in negotiation and conclusion of the marriage. Courts require compliance with customary law in accordance with section 3 (1) (b) of the Act (Radebe, 2016).

2. Traditional Courts Bill, originally introduced in the National Assembly as Traditional Courts Bill [B 15—2008], withdrawn on 2 June 2011, and reintroduced as [B1 – 2012] which lapsed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Pfarelo Matshidze

PFARELO EVA MATSHIDZE is a senior lecturer in the Department of African Studies at the University of Venda, South Africa.

Veronica Nemutandani

VERONICA NEMUTANDANI a lecturer in the Department of Social Work at the University of Venda in South Africa and a registered Social Worker. Email: [email protected]