Exploration of Sikenge initiation rite in the promotion of Lozi cultural heritage: A case of Mongu District
Date
2015
Authors
Mundia, Mulako Yvonne
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
The study explores the extent to which Sikenge Initiation Rite promotes Lozi cultural heritage in Mongu district. The study further sought to determine changes that have taken place over the years regarding the spiritual, social and moral aspects of Sikenge initiation rite. The objectives of the study were to: explore spiritual education that is provided in the Sikenge initiation rite among the Lozi people of Mongu district; assess social aspects of the Sikenge initiation rite; establish the extent to which moral education is being provided in the Sikenge initiation rite among the Lozi people of Mongu district and lastly to determine changes that have taken place over the years regarding the spiritual, social and moral aspects of Sikenge initiation rite.
This qualitative study employed a case study design because it described and analysed the culture and behaviour of the Lozi people from the point of view of the participants. It focused on the reasons and procedures for performing the rituals. The target population of the study comprised initiators, initiated girls and women. To arrive at the targeted sample, purposive sampling was used and snow-ball was employed to get to the intended respondents. In order to ensure reliability and validity of the findings the study triangulated the methods of data collection by using the semi-structured interviews that involved initiators and initiated girls, focus group discussions with initiated women and observations of the rite were done.
The study established that spiritual education provided in Sikenge was based on beliefs and values that the Lozi people have held for a long time now. Furthermore the study established that Sikenge as a socialising agent promoted respect for elders and authority through good conduct; good and stable marriages, solidarity in the community and provided entertainment to members of the community. It also established that the rite still encouraged the young girls who undergo it to adhere to good morals. Although the rite has been in existence from the time of our ancestors, it was established that several changes had taken place due to the advent of Christianity, Western education, urbanisation, modernity and economic factors. The study recommends that the participants should continue to modify the rite in order to incorporate issues that had surfaced as a result of the changes in the social and economic life of the Lozi people.
Description
Keywords
Initiation Rite , Rites and ceremonies-Zambia