Black people and their Sangomas

I have been holding back on writing about Black people's relationship with Sangomas. Being Umngoma, I battled with the ancient concept which today is known as the "doctor-patient-confidentiality". The silence on this burning issue was just helping deepen stereotypes and robbed off my community crucial information. 

First, I want to address the practice of Ubungoma or being a Sangoma. I am uncomfortable when it is referred to as culture or cultural practice. It is not. This is part of African religion that has been demonised by the advent of Christianity in Africa. It brings me to one of the reasons why I am writing about the disturbing relationship Black people have with African religion. 

On Sundays, most Black South Africans are in church praying in the name of Jesus (peace be upon him). But Monday to Friday they don't mind the burning of Impepho to ask for guidance from the ancestral spirits. I know this is a testimony of many Sangomas, especially in more urban areas. Late night unexpected visits from people seeking a bone-reading session for different reasons. Late night because people still don't want to be seen paying a visit to a Sangoma. I don't know I have accepted this situation. 

Before I tell you some of my experience, let me give you this analogy; When using western medicine for an ailment, you need to adhere to a certain diet, behaviour and other conditions for a speedy recovery. 

Now, the same principle applies in African religion. I have found that most Black people who do not even believe in African religion use Sangomas as a last resort in their desperate situations, expecting miracles. Miracles do not happen without faith and a firm foundation of belief in anything one embarks on. Ubungoma goes hand in hand with Ubuntu. It is part of my training as a Sangoma to be compassionate. And this is the principle that has forced me to be patient with people who come for consultation, but have no relationship with their ancestors or even family history. It is our belief that our ancestors are the intermediary between us and God. A Sangoma is a link between those who have departed and those left behind. This is very important to understand for anyone seeking help from a Sangoma. 

I am sure you are familiar with the saying, 'An apple a day, keeps the doctor away'. My advice to Black people who subscribe to African religion, if you want to avoid misfortune and last minute visits to a Sangoma. Start a relationship with your ancestors. It can't be right that you consider African religion when everything else has failed. Burn impepho, buy brandy or whiskey or even water if brewing proper Umqombothi is too much work and perform a ritual to announce your promotion at work or your new house and car. Sometimes just give thanks to the gods. Perform rituals at least once every quarter. Visit your Sangoma for clarity and advice. Visit your Sangoma for that persisting headache that medical doctors could not fix. Visit your Sangoma if you need someone to talk to about anything. Visit your Sangoma for a steam bath with some sacred herbs. Get your Sangoma to explain the importance of prayers to the ancestors. Yes, prayers, not worship.

We need to break the stereotypes. Why can't you have a relationship with you Sangoma, the same way you do with your physician? Sangomas do not dish out korobela so you can keep your tenderpreneur. Sangomas do not bring back lost lovers. But they get you on a path where you won't lose anything that is important to you. 

Makhosi!