Assessment heading and number: Assessment 6 – 357083
Your name and surname: Tshiamo Cleopatra Gqoba
Student Number:16553276
Group Number:
Name of department and University (Department of African Languages, Unisa)
Course code and name (AFL1501: Language through an African Lens)
Name of instructor:
Name of TA:
Due date: 25 May
Task 1 : Portfolio Activity Screenshot
Task 2
1 First portfolio activity
2) Second portfolio activity
-When I look in the mirror, I see someone who has grown through various experiences,
shaped by both successes and failures. I see a face that has aged with time, reflecting
both the joy and the challenges I’ve encountered. Beyond the physical features, I
recognize a person who strives for personal growth and understanding, constantly
evolving.
-This reflection indicates that I am more than just my outward appearance. It suggests
that I am a culmination of my experiences, thoughts, and emotions. My identity is deeply
connected to my inner qualities, values, and the way I interact with the world. It
highlights that my essence is defined by my actions, decisions, and the impact I have on
others.
-Yes, I like what I see because the person in the mirror represents resilience and
continuous self-improvement. Despite any imperfections or mistakes, I appreciate the
journey I’ve undertaken and the person I have become. This self-acceptance is crucial
because it allows me to embrace my strengths and acknowledge areas for growth
without being overly critical. It reflects a balance between self-compassion and the drive
to become better.
Task 2 Family
- I was named by my Grandmother, who is the mother of my mother and she
played a significant role in raising me.
-My grandmother named me Tshiamo, which in Setswana, means righteousness.
She named me this because she thought I would bring righteousness to the family.
-Yes, the name Tshiamo reflects cultural, language identity, and personality.
Tshiamo is a name of Tswana origin, commonly used among the Batswana
people in Botswana and South Africa. It means “righteousness” or “goodness” in
Setswana, which reflects the values and moral principles held by the community.
The name encapsulates the cultural emphasis on ethical behavior and
uprightness, traits highly valued in Tswana culture.
- The name is rooted in the Setswana language, one of the Bantu languages
spoken in Southern Africa. It signifies the linguistic heritage of the Tswana
people. Using this name honors and preserves the Setswana language,
contributing to the continuation and appreciation of the linguistic identity of its
speakers.
- Naming me Tshiamo carries the hope that I will embody the qualities of
righteousness and goodness throughout my life. It reflects a positive and
aspirational aspect of personality, indicating that me, bearing the name, I am
expected to exhibit integrity, fairness, and kindness.
3) Task 1: Cultural Ceremonies and Occasions
a- Traditional Zulu Wedding (Umabo)
Before the ceremony
Weeks Leading Up to the Ceremony:
1. Negotiations (Lobola): Discussions between the families of the bride and groom
regarding the bride price (lobola), traditionally paid in cattle or cash.
2. Preparation of Gifts: The bride’s family prepares gifts for the groom’s family.
3. Outfit Preparations: Both families prepare traditional attire and regalia to be worn on
the wedding day.
4. Invitation and Planning: Invitations are sent out to family members, friends, and
community members. This period involves detailed planning and allocation of roles.
5. Food Preparation: Ingredients for traditional dishes are gathered, and food
preparation plans are made.
6. Rehearsals and Meetings: Family meetings to discuss the sequence of events and
rehearsals for dances and songs to be performed.
Components of the Ceremony
1. Arrival of the Bride The bride, often accompanied by her family, arrives at the groom’s
home, showcasing her traditional attire and gifts.
2. Welcoming Songs and Dances: The groom’s family welcomes the bride with
traditional Zulu songs and dances.
3. Exchange of Gifts: The bride presents gifts to the groom’s family, symbolizing respect
and the joining of the two families.
4. Traditional Attire and Regalia: Both families display their traditional Zulu attire, which
is richly adorned with beads and animal skins.
5. Feast:A communal feast with traditional Zulu dishes like isishebo (stew), amadumbe
(sweet potatoes), and umqombothi (traditional beer).
6.Ceremonial Dance (Ukugida):The bride performs a special dance called ukugida to
showcase her joy and acceptance into her new family.
7. Elders’ Blessing: Elders from both families offer blessings and advice to the
newlyweds.
Significance
The traditional Zulu wedding, known as Umabo, is significant as it symbolizes the union
of two families, cultural heritage, and respect for ancestors. It serves to unite the
community and reinforce cultural traditions.
Attire Worn
1. Bride:The bride wears a beaded isiZulu wedding dress, often in vibrant colors, with
intricate beadwork and accessories like a beaded necklace and headband.
2. Groom:The groom typically wears traditional Zulu attire, including an ibheshu
(loincloth made from animal skin), isiphephetu (decorative animal hide), and
amambatha (shawls).
3. Family Members: Family members also wear traditional Zulu attire, emphasizing the
cultural heritage and unity of the occasion.
Significance of the Clothes Worn
1. Bride’s Attire: The elaborate beadwork and vibrant colors of the bride’s attire
symbolize her beauty, fertility, and readiness to join her husband’s family.
2. Groom’s Attire: The groom’s animal-skin attire represents his strength, bravery, and
readiness to take on his role as a husband and protector.
3. Family Members’ Attire: Wearing traditional clothing signifies respect for cultural
heritage and unity among family members.
Gifts Given
Gifts are exchanged between the bride and groom’s families. The bride presents gifts
like blankets, kitchen utensils, and clothing to the groom’s family as a sign of respect
and gratitude. The groom’s family might present the bride with gifts as well.
Food Preparation
Food preparation is typically overseen by the women of both families, particularly the
bride’s mother and aunts. They are chosen due to their experience in preparing
traditional dishes and their role in teaching cultural practices to the younger generation.
Financial Responsibility
The groom’s family usually bears the financial responsibility for the wedding, covering
costs like lobola, food, attire, and other expenses. This reflects the groom’s commitment
to taking care of his new family.
Role of Music
Music plays a central role in the ceremony, with traditional Zulu songs and dances
performed throughout. It enhances the celebratory atmosphere, conveys cultural values,
and brings the community together.
Invitation or Open
The ceremony is generally by invitation to ensure that close family and friends can
participate and that the event remains intimate and respectful. However, it can also be
open to the community, reflecting the communal nature of Zulu culture.
b- Visual Representation
Smith, J. (2021). Traditional Zulu Wedding Dance. [Photograph]. Cultural Celebrations
Archive. Available at: https://www.gettyimages.com/photos/zulu-wedding (Accessed: 25
May 2024)
4) Task 1: Ubuntu
1. Community Support during Bereavement: When a member of the community
experiences a loss, such as the death of a loved one, the entire community often comes
together to provide support and comfort. This communal support is a powerful
expression of Ubuntu, emphasizing the interconnectedness and mutual care among
people.
Practical Example: In a rural South African village, when a family loses a member,
neighbors and extended family members rally around to offer their condolences and
practical help. They might cook meals, help with funeral arrangements, and provide
emotional support. This collective effort not only eases the burden on the grieving family
but also reinforces the community’s bond and shared humanity.
2. Volunteering to Build a Community Facility: Volunteering to improve communal
resources, such as building a community center or school, is another significant gesture
reflecting Ubuntu. This act shows a commitment to the well-being and development of
the entire community, not just individual gain.
Practical Example: In a township, residents might come together to build a playground
for children. Volunteers of all ages contribute in various ways: some provide labor,
others donate materials, and some offer expertise in construction or project
management. This collaborative effort creates a safe and enjoyable space for children,
fostering a sense of community pride and shared responsibility for the well-being of
future generations.
Task 2: Final Reflection
Final Reflection
Before I started AFL1501, I thought that African cultures and languages were largely
homogenous and did not realize the extent of their diversity and richness. My
understanding of African traditions was limited to broad stereotypes and generalized
views. However, after completing the course, I now appreciate the profound complexity
and uniqueness of African cultural practices and languages. This course has opened my
eyes to the intricate social, historical, and linguistic landscapes that define the African
continent.
One of the most significant lessons I learned is the concept of Ubuntu, which
emphasizes community, interconnectedness, and mutual support. The various cultural
ceremonies and traditions, such as the Zulu wedding I studied, highlighted the
importance of family, community, and respect for elders in African societies. These
practices are not mere rituals but are deeply embedded in the social fabric and identity
of the people. The act of coming together to celebrate, mourn, or resolve conflicts
underscores the communal values that are central to many African cultures.
In terms of language, I discovered the incredible linguistic diversity present in Africa,
with thousands of languages spoken across the continent. African languages are not
just means of communication but are carriers of cultural heritage, knowledge, and
identity. For instance, learning about the Bantu languages and their widespread
influence highlighted how language can shape social structures and cultural
interactions. The multilingual nature of African societies also demonstrates the
adaptability and resilience of these cultures in maintaining their languages despite
colonial histories and globalization.
Moreover, the course underscored the importance of preserving African languages,
which are at risk of disappearing. Language revitalization efforts are crucial for
maintaining cultural diversity and ensuring that future generations can connect with their
heritage. Initiatives like teaching African languages in schools and promoting their use in
media and technology are vital steps toward this goal.
Overall, AFL1501 has transformed my perspective on Africa, moving me from a place of
ignorance to a deeper understanding and appreciation. I now recognize the value of
cultural traditions, the significance of communal values, and the critical importance of
preserving linguistic diversity. This newfound knowledge has enriched my worldview and
underscored the importance of respecting and celebrating the myriad cultures that make
up our global community.
