Mail & Guardian
Mail & Guardian
Ayanda Nqeketo

Creator

Ayanda Nqeketo

Ayanda Nqeketo is a medical anthropologist and director of the Ikamva Lesizwe Institute. He has many years of experience working in the space of ulwaluko in the Eastern Cape and beyond.

The customary practice in South Africa, which is a rite of passage from boyhood to manhood, is often riddled with controversy between those calling for it to be completely scrapped in favour of circumcision at hospitals and staunch traditionalists demanding its continued preservation.
AMAHLUBI INITIATION

KwaGaba Initiation School: A family’s answer to challenges in cultural male initiation

It is vital that the safety and security of initiates is enhanced throughout ulwaluko schools in the Eastern Cape

  • Ayanda Nqeketo
12 min read
Villagers and outsiders welcome returning initiates to Matatiele in the Eastern Cape. (Ayanda Nqeketo)
AMAXHOSA

AmaXhosa of Matatiele say yes to ‘safe’ initiation

Young initiates avoid medical complications thanks to a blend of cultural tradition with health and safety practices

  • Ayanda Nqeketo
10 min read