African Culture

  • Swazi Maidens and Peace Corps Members Carrying Their Reed

    ByMpumi

    ‘Umhlanga’ Ceremony or Reed Dance.   It’s yet another year when maidens from all across Swaziland, will come together for the kingdom of Eswatini’s annual reed dance  or Umhlanga festival. The Festival a seven day event that runs from the end of August into September.  This year 2018, ran from 28th of August to 3rd…

  • After Lobola Has Been Paid What Happens Next?

    ByAnita

    Many people don’t know what happens after lobola, which is one of the stages in southern African wedding procedure. But here is what happens next. After the lobola, which is the bride price/dowry negotiations, you proceed to the Umembeso. The Umembeso is a gift presentation ceremony where the groom’s family give gifts to the bride’s…

  • Lobola Importance, Payment Procedure and Preparations??

    ByAnita

    What is the Purpose of Lobola? In Southern Africa, just like every other region in Africa, lobola or bride price payment is a very important aspect of traditional weddings.Though expensive and time consuming, the practice of lobola appears to express the man’s determination and promise to provide for the woman and their family.   How…

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    The Difference Between Umembeso and Lobola Ceremony

    ByAnita

    What is Umembeso Ceremony? Sometimes it’s difficult for people to distinguish between lobola and umembeso ceremonies. Even though they are performed on the same day, the activities of both vary and serve different purposes.   Umembeso is a Zulu traditional ceremony that is part of the lobola negotiations where the groom presents gifts to the…