Chewa People in Malawi

GULE WAMKULU

In Malawi, close to 80% of people are Christians, and 17% are Muslim. The rest of the 3% believe in traditional beliefs. One of the groups in 3% are called Chewa. Within this group is a secret society known as Gule wamkulu, which is also the name of the dance they perform at various ceremonies. They perform at ceremonies such as funerals, weddings, and other special occasions.

The Gule Wamkulu wear animal skins and dress in masks. They kick up dust while dancing to hide themselves. Only the chief who appointed them as protector of the village and only he knows their true identities.

They are known for their "animal state" that they reach by wearing animal skins. It is said that they are not to be approached while in this state, and if a person does, they might drag them to the ceremony for rituals.

In the Chewa belief, death is not natural and is usually caused by witchcraft. The whole village shows up if someone dies. Also they believe that witchcraft can only work on family members. So since most of the villagers are related, they show up to the funeral. Funerals are not just to mourn but to eat,  huge social parties, drink beer, and meet people.

Original: http://www.malawiproject.org/about-malawi/history/gule-wamkulu/

Bride Kidnapping

Stolen Lives

There has been a widespread tradition of violent bride abductions in many parts of Africa in the past years and, even today, regardless of numerous attempts to eliminate this horrible tradition throughout Africa by human rights groups. This tradition happens very frequently in certain areas of Africa such as Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia. Some of the main effects of this traditions are sexually transmitted diseases, marital rape, unwanted pregnancies, and abuse. This is one of the main reasons that the lives of women are so restricted in these areas.

The most severe area of Africa this affects is Rwanda in regards to bride kidnapping. Most cases in Rwanda end with repeated rape & impregnation. The victimized women are usually taken from their house. The women are in serious danger due to the country not having any laws against kidnapping and domestic violence. Bride kidnappers in Rwanda are rarely apprehended and prosecuted in court. Local authorities unfortunately cannot take actions about the many kidnappers roaming around freely on the streets who continue to threaten women and their freedom. 

Many women's rights groups and families have been trying to take preventative steps. Alfred Karekezi, Family Promotion & Child Rights Advisor, mentioned several workshops in which they "provide all district officials & relevant support groups with relevant tools enabling them to increase awareness of gender principles in their districts."

These problems occur due to a major setback in development of gender equality. Along with gender equality, authorities have not been giving this enough attention to ban this violent tradition in all areas of Africa.

Article: http://www.restlessbeings.org/human-rights/stolen-lives-bride-kidnapping-in-africa