Over lunchtime, a full traditional
meal is served in the village with
the family. The wives of the chief
wash the hands of the guests,
and pots of food are brought
from the fire and served. Guests
are given portions of each item
they choose on a carved wooden
plate, and eat with an elegantly
crafted wooden spoon.
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In the centre of the market are clay and
stone pieces, including carvings, statues and
pots, and an oven used for firing clay work.
The surrounding huts house the work of different crafters. Daytime tours During the day,
small groups are led from the Marula Market
through the bush and past fields, where a
trained guide shows how the Shangaan people collect food from their environment, and
explains a little about traditional farming.
The route leads up to a village, the home of
a Shangaan headman, his wives and children.
In the village, the guide explains different
facets of the Shangaan way of life, including
their history and customs, initiation ceremonies, the practice of polygamy, the outfits
and weapons of masocho (warriors), the construction of homes, ornate beadwork clothing, and food preparation.
Guests are encouraged to touch, feel and
participate, while the guide explains the etiquette necessary to ensure the privacy of the
family. Guests then visit the kraal of the sangoma, a registered member of the Traditional
Healers Association, who explains different
medicines - and may throw his bones on request.
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