The issue of homosexuality in isiXhosa culture was put under the microscope by the newly established Rhodes Xhosa Open Society. The group held a discussion with the audience after staging a new play Ndoda uyi mofi (Man! You are a moffie!)
The issue of homosexuality in isiXhosa culture was put under the microscope by the newly established Rhodes Xhosa Open Society. The group held a discussion with the audience after staging a new play Ndoda uyi mofi (Man! You are a moffie!)
The issue of ilobolo (traditional Xhosa marriage negotiations) was raised and some guests angrily said a man cannot pay lobola for another man or vice versa.
Khwezilomso Mbandazayo, a lesbian, said that Xhosa culture has evolved. "Our culture has been influenced – it is no longer pure,” she said. Mbandazayo explained how young men who have completed initiation will often dress in khaki pants, hats and jackets which are not traditionally African clothing.
However not everyone at the open discussion was in support of homosexuality. Kwanele Butana, one of the guests, explained that in Xhosa culture decisions are made collectively something which homosexuality challenges.
"The amaXhosa sat down and had a discussion about using umqombothi (African beer) and brandy for the cultural gatherings. Homosexuality was not discussed collectively – people converted on their own when becoming gays and lesbians, which is why it is not acceptable in our culture,” said Butana.
During the debate it was clear that these issues needed to be discussed as there were mixed feelings and many varying opinions on these matters. However, some concluded that one shouldn’t be judgemental and people should respect and accept each other’s sexual lifestyles.
